Getting To Know: Michael Adu-Poku

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.

First up to take on the questions in 2022/23 is highly-rated forward Michael Adu-Poku.

The 17-year-old, who has risen through the ranks since joining the club in 2018, is a first-year scholar who has featured for both the Under-18s and Under-21s so far this season.

How would you describe your playing style?
I’m quite a physical footballer and I’m quite fast. I’d say I’m good on the ball, and I like to bring my teammates into the game a lot.

Your footballing idol?
Definitely Thierry Henry. I love his playing style and his confidence with the ball at his feet. It inspires me, and I used to watch him a lot when I was younger. My dad has shown me a lot of his stuff.

Biggest influence?
My Under-16s coach, Armand Kavaja. He taught me a lot, and used to bring me to the side and help me understand things a lot more.

Most talented teammate?
Adrian Blake. I like his arrogance on the ball, and he is just so free when he is on the football pitch. He is always confident, and I know that whenever I give him the ball he will do something in the game. He’s great to play with.

Favourite football memory?
During my trial for the Watford Under-13s team I played a game against Crystal Palace, and I played really well. I scored two goals and my teammates really liked me. It ended 3-1 or 4-1.

Your aims for the future?
I just want to play professional football, hopefully at a good level. That’s what I hope to do when I’m older.

Best advice you’ve received?
Armand would always say, ‘don’t get too high on the highs, and don’t get too low on the lows’. That was great advice.

Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I don’t know really. I haven’t thought about it because I think about football too much! Maybe a fireman or something like that.

How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 87 - I’m quite fast to be fair!
Shooting: 80 - I could be better at shooting.
Passing: 75 - I could definitely improve my passing.
Dribbling: 85 - My dribbling is quite good, I think.
Defending: 60 - I’m not very good at defending if I’m honest!
Physical: 86 - Yeah, definitely happy with that.
OVERALL: 83