Bosun Lawal is thrilled to round off a breakthrough campaign by winning the Academy Player of the Season award.
The 17-year-old made his debut for the Under-23s this season, ending the season as a fixture in Omer Riza's side, and also captained the Under-18s at St James' Park in a thrilling FA Youth Cup tie. His marauding performances, at both centre-half and in central midfield, have been rewarded by being handed the top award at this club for scholars.
“I'm really pleased,” said the Republic of Ireland youth international. “I came here from Ireland and wanted to show what I can do, to show my talent and to win this award with the quality we have in the academy is a surreal moment.
“My family will be very proud as they have sacrificed a lot for me. I've enjoyed this season a lot. Everything has gone well and the lads have performed well. Captaining the team at St James' Park was the highlight and now I just want to keep going, keep showing what I can do for the 23s and then get an opportunity with the first team.”
Head of Academy Barry Quin has been delighted to see the development of a player the club signed from St. Kevins Boys in July 2019.
“He deserves this award,” said Quin. “He's worked extremely hard and he's a very popular player. People look at him and assume his size and strength are his attributes. That is part of it, but he's much more than that. He can play out from the back with the ball, play with the ball in midfield and play in different positions. He's a manager's dream. The sky is the limit with the right opportunity. I think he can go all the way.”
