The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next up to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Adian Manning.
The 18-year-old joined the Hornets in 2012 and featured regularly for the Under-18s and Under-23s during the 2021/22 campaign, including against Chelsea and notably scoring against Cardiff City in the FA Youth Cup.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’d say I’m a box-to-box midfielder. I can play in a deeper role, but I can also move into an attacking position and be creative. I can play anywhere in the midfield. I look up to Moussa Sissoko, Sergio Busquets and Luka Modrić.
Favourite current Watford footballer?
I really like Sissoko. I think he is a fantastic player and since he has come to Watford he has shown his quality. You can see in matches he is very dominant. We spoke briefly when the Under-23s played the first team in a match. I also like Ismaïla Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis.
Biggest influence?
My mum, to be honest. Since I was very young she’s been instrumental in my career, taking me to training every day, encouraging me and giving me that extra belief. Even now she asks me about how my football is going because I’m in digs and she can’t really see me train.
Favourite football kit?
I really like Ajax’s third kit from the season just gone, the Three Little Birds-inspired one. The Watford red away kit from 2021/22 really sticks out, as well.
Favourite boots?
That’d have to be the Puma Futures in pink - they’re great.
Favourite footballing memory?
As a player getting to play against Newcastle in the FA Youth Cup earlier in my career - we went far and did really well. From a watching point of view, when Troy Deeney scored that winner against Leicester in the play-offs in 2013, that was amazing. I’m originally a Spurs fan so the Ajax second-leg semi-final in the Champions League in 2019 is up there, too. That was unbelievable.
Most talented teammate?
Hamzat Balogun. The way he carries himself is amazing - he is so professional on and off the pitch. He brings a different kind of energy to our game, which I really like. Me and him connect well on the pitch. When your full-back is on the ball you need to always be an option for him, especially as a midfielder, so it’s very important to have a good connection with him.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
I like to spend time with family, and do a little bit of gaming here and there with some of the other Watford players. I listen to Toosii a lot, and I play a lot of FIFA Ultimate Team. It’s great and is something to talk about because everyone plays it. We’re all just competitive to see who can get the better players and who’s best at the game. I’ve also been watching the newest season of Money Heist, recently.
Best footballing advice you’ve received?
Deeney once said: “The real pressure is my mum working three jobs. Football is not pressure.” That’s one of the best things I’ve heard.
