Talent trumps senior experience

By David Watters

Merstham's Rhys Davies could be playing in the Championship next season before he's even appeared in the Ryman League after being snapped up by Sheffield United.

The 17-year-old skipper of the Surrey club's U18s is looking forward to completing his move from the academy at the Moatside to the League One leaders on July 1 after putting pen-to-paper on his first pro contract, pictured.

The Moatsiders are delighted for the product of their Kinetic Foundation programme who is currently studying for his A levels at the Royal Russell School and aiming to lead his side to the Ryman Youth League East Division title before departing for South Yorkshire in the summer.

Merstham's U18s manager Harry Hudson is backing the talented left-back to thrive at the higher level with his attitude and reckons he'll be watching his career with pride after the teenager chose the Blades over a number of other pro clubs who'd also been sending scouts to track his progress.

Hudson said: “We are extremely proud of Rhys and that he has now secured his professional contract at Sheffield United. He has put in so much hard work to become the player he is today – he saw seven of his peers move on to professional clubs this year but he continued to dig in and believe he had the quality to progress. We wish Rhys all the best in the future and will follow his progress avidly!”

* After beating Ryman South neighbours Dorking Wanderers 3-2 away last week in the semi-final of the Surrey Senior Cup, Hayden Bird's holders are getting ready to meet National League Woking in this season's final on Wednesday 3 May.

The Moatsiders beat Godalming Town 4-1 at Woking's Kingfield Stadium last term and will be hoping to lift the silverware for a third time in their history when they take on The Cards at their home.

Image courtesy of Merstham FC

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