Youngster Jordan Haywood, has made quite the impression in first year in our academy, featuring regular in in the FA Youth Cup run, the under 21s side and being named in the first team squad, which he has put down to his coaches.

He said: “it’s been amazing playing for Josh, Callum and Chets. I have taken up a new position this year and I have learnt so much and improved so much already.

“We all look up to the coaches and they are great role models for what we want to achieve in our football careers.”

As well we his coaches the now full back was full of praise for the clubs set up and how it helps him prepare for later life.

“Basford is run very professionally,” he added” The facilities are top quality and the standard of football is very good.

“Coming from a professional academy I feel like Basford is very similar to a professional academy if not better than I have experienced in the past.

“The education is very good as well, we all enjoy the lessons we have and it helps with things we want to do later on in life and also on the pitch.”

All of this has provided an enjoyable first year for the teenager.

“ I have really enjoyed my first year at the club, for me it has been very positive with the experiences I have had so far.

“I have loved every minute of learning my new position as well and trying to improve as much I can.”

His first year has saw Haywood start every game of the academy’s run to the third round of the FA Youth Cup and he has been involved with the first team squad, both of which he feels have helped him improve as a player.

He said: "The FA Youth Cup run has been a very very enjoyable experience. We have experienced all sorts of emotions in the games and the togetherness of the boys is only getting stronger the longer we stay in the competition.

“And being involved with the first team is a great experience.

“You learn so much in just a short space of time with them as the standards are so high. They are all very welcoming and are willing to help and give advice which is also great.”

Ahead of our open day Haywood called for players to come to the club in order to improve and enjoy their football.

He said: "I would 100% recommend basford to anyone who loves football.

"After I left academy football I was stuck and was down but joining Basford was definitely a great decision, I am enjoying my football and improving every time I step on the pitch."

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