Getting To Know: Jack Taylor

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 midfielder Jack Taylor.

The 17-year-old former Tottenham and West Ham starlet, who joined the Hornets in 2018, is a first-year scholar who features regularly for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18s side.

How would you describe your playing style?
When I was younger I used to play up front, so I’m quite attacking. I like to get on the ball and play it forward a lot. Normally, I’ll play long passes in-behind or short passes to keep it simple. I’ll play it in-behind the back four if possible.

Your footballing idol?
I like watching old clips of Steven Gerrard, Michael Carrick and Roy Keane because they played in a similar position to me. I like how they played; Gerrard would tackle players and his range of passing was incredible, and Keane was aggressive with lots of confidence on the ball. I look at how they played and where they played passes.

Biggest influence?
I would say my dad, because he has taken me everywhere my entire life. He always pushes me to be the best I can be, and makes sure I work my hardest all the time.

Most talented teammate?
I’d have to say Michael Adu-Poku, because he is so strong and fast, and he wins most of his one-on-one duels on the pitch. He is a very trustworthy player, and if you pass the ball to him you know that we will get forward as a team and we will create chances. He is a great outlet for me as a midfielder, as well.

Favourite football memory?
Last year I came on as a substitute for the Under-17s against West Ham United in the London Cup, and I scored a free-kick that meant we drew the game. It was a big moment for me, because the coaches from the Under-16s and the Under-18s were watching. It really boosted me, and it helped me feature in Under-18s.

Your aims for the future?
My aim is to try and start in the FA Youth Cup this season. I also want to keep a consistent place in the Under-18s this year, and make sure I don’t drop out. After my scholarship, of course the aim is to get that professional contract.

Best advice you’ve received?
When I trained with the first-team recently I was speaking to Hamza Choudhury. We were talking about how he plays and then he gave me advice. He said: “Be confident on the ball, look up and have fun when you play. Make sure you never give up, work your hardest and bounce back from your mistakes.” That advice has helped me a lot.

Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
At college right now I’m studying sports, so if I wasn’t a footballer I would go into the sports industry as a nutritionist or a coach, or something along those lines.

How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 70 - I do a lot of recovery sprints in the game and try to get back. Speed is crucial as a midfielder.
Shooting: 75 - Most chances I have, I will either create or score from.
Passing: 82 - It’s a big part of my game and I have a wide range of passing.
Dribbling: 80 - I have to try and beat my opponents in the game to create chances.
Defending: 83 - I like to win my duels in the game and keep possession.
Physicality: 85 - I’m one of the strongest in my age group and I dominate my one-on-one duels.
OVERALL: 85