Brighton & Hove Albion: The Rise of Jake Forster-Caskey

Jake Forster-Caskey, the young midfielder for BHAFC makes his mark

It was last year (issue 556, 13 December) our very own Albion reporter Mark Brailsford claimed he would love to see young Jake Forster-Caskey given a game. The Powers That Be (Gus Poyet et al) heard his call – and realising the potential of the young (he’s only 17!) Albion midfielder, the first game of the new year saw Jake Forster-Caskey start for the Albion side and score the first goal against current Championship leaders Southampton. It was a dream come true for the young player and the fans rejoiced too. The roof was blown off The Amex that day (not literally – there isn’t one) as Albion fans braved the grim weather on 2 January to back their team in what was an exciting 3-0 win for our boys in blue.

With 11 first-team players absent due to injury or suspension, reshuffling was needed in order to put out a strong Albion side, but Gus and the management pulled this off, giving opportunities to the likes of Forster-Caskey and Brezovan in goal. Fans will hope to see more of BHA’s new wonder kid (remember when a young Michael Owen was the hope of so many England fans c1998? This is how Albion fans are starting to see Forster-Caskey.) He is young though, and Gus may bide his time with the midfielder, building him up to become a central part of the team.?For now, the 17-year-old remains humble, thanking the ‘gaffer’ for showing faith in him and giving him the chance to start.

And what a day for Forster-Caskey to start: a new year in the new stadium playing current Championship leaders Southampton. The Albion fans have always been praised for their support at away games but you can’t beat the home game atmosphere!

Coming up: BHAFC vs Bristol City (H), Saturday 14 January