Getting To Know: Ben Casey

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 to take on the questions is highly-rated defender Ben Casey.

The 17-year-old, who featured for Fulham and Arsenal before linking up with the Hornets, is a first-year scholar who has featured regularly for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18s this season.

How would you describe your playing style?
I’d say I’m a ball-playing centre-half. That’s where I start my game. I take pride in keeping clean sheets and I love defending.

Your footballing idol?
It has to be Steven Gerrard for me. He was a great leader and could do everything on the pitch, from scoring goals to defending. Defensively, Virgil van Dijk makes everything look effortless, and he has a great range of passing.

Biggest influence?
My dad has been really important. He got me into football at a young age and that’s something that I’m very grateful for. He has taken me to loads of games, getting me help when it is necessary, extra training, running - all that sort of stuff.

Most talented teammate?
I would probably say George Abbott. He is so professional in everything he does on and off the pitch. For example, in the gym he always gives 100 per cent and makes sure he does everything to the right standard. He is not afraid to pull people up if they are slacking.

Favourite football memory?
I would say playing for the Under-18s last season as an Under-16. I played well enough to keep my spot for the rest of the season from the early months to the end. I earned the trust of my teammates and my coaches.

Your aims for the future?
I would love to play in the FA Youth Cup this year, because it’s a massive tournament. You get to play against great teams in great stadiums in front of fans, which is something I really want to progress to this season.

Best advice you’ve received?
Play every game like it is your last. If you had it in your mind that this was the last time you would play football, you would give it 100 per cent and everything.

Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’d be a postman, because I always deliver!

How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 83 – I think I’m fairly quick, but I’m not quite at Michael Adu-Poku’s level yet!
Shooting: 68 – Being a centre-half I don’t get many efforts on goal, but I have a good strike.
Passing: 86 – I have quite a good range of passing, from little passes into midfield or direct passes to the opposite winger.
Dribbling: 66 – I don’t get to show off my dribbling too much.
Defending: 88 – It’s something I really take pride in.
Physical: 85 – I consider myself to be quite strong if I’m honest.
OVERALL: 86