Tariq Lamptey made the brave decision of leaving Chelsea for Brighton in January to gain more game time. The versatile youngster has certainly thrived since arriving at The Amex.
He has provided Albion with a new lease of life down the right flank, helping them to a 15th place finish on 41 points last term, their best season to date in the Premier League.
His stellar performances since the turn of the calendar year deserve more recognition than he received from Match Of The Day pundits.
The England squad for games against Wales, Belgium and Denmark has been announced. Unfortunately there was no birthday present for Lamptey, who turned 20 yesterday. However, surely it’s only a matter of time.
Humble beginnings
The youngster failed to make a start for Chelsea’s senior team but notched 82 games across all ranks for the club’s youth squads.
He certainly made an impact on his professional debut for the Blues, against London rivals Arsenal in December. The game was his first Premier League match and the first home game for Gunners manager Mikel Arteta.
Lamptey came on close to the hour mark and played an important role in Chelsea’a 2-1 comeback victory. He helped keep a clean sheet in the second half and created opportunities for Tammy Abraham, who scored the winner.
The England Under-20 international made just two FA Cup appearances under Frank Lampard following the win before joining The Seagulls, where he has impressed under Graham Potter.
Bright at Brighton
Lamptey played in each of the Seagulls’ final eight matches of last campaign. He helpedto keep a clean sheet in his first match against Leicester City, one of three he was involved in.
He also provided an assist against Liverpool in defeat, one of four from 11 Albion appearances.
The 20-year-old has looked sharp, likes to get forward and isn’t afraid to put deliveries into the box first time.
He possesses a lot of pace and is known for his lung-busting ability to support counter-attacks and recover quickly.
The Tariq temptation
He will certainly provide Gareth Southgate with food for thought. He could rival Kyle Walker and Trent Alexander-Arnold for the right-back berth, especially if he can maintain his terrific performances throughout the season.
Lamptey has played as a wing-back under Potter and, given Southgate has experimented with a wing-back system in the past, it would enable the 20 year-old to fit into England’s formation with no need for adjustment.
The player would also be a dream for instinctive strikers such as Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane, who are always looking for an early ball in.
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