Samuel Iling-Junior

In the heart of Middlesbrough's left flank, Samuel Iling is quietly crafting a name for himself in the Championship. At just 21, he exhibits a maturity beyond his years, blending youthful exuberance with a disciplined approach to the game. His style of play is marked by an impressive knack for ball recovery, which belies his attacking position and offers his team an unexpected defensive solidity. While he's not the most prolific in terms of creating chances or threatening the goal, his goal efficiency is surprisingly high, suggesting a knack for making the most of limited opportunities. However, his ball retention leaves something to be desired, which could be an area for development if he's to realise his full potential. His progressive passing shows promise, hinting at a developing eye for forward play, though his carrying of the ball needs refinement to truly terrorise defences. As scout reports suggest, Iling's one-on-one defending is exceptionally stout for a winger, providing Middlesbrough with a dual-threat on the left. With time on his side, he's a player to watch in the coming seasons.