47. Rhys Murphy

Prolific striker Rhys recovered from his injury nightmare to score some of the most important goals of the season for Steve Bould’s under-18s.

Ever since bursting onto the scene in 2006/07, when he scored 20 goals in just 16 starts for the u-18s whilst still a schoolboy, there has been a lot of hype surrounding the Shoreham-by-sea forward.

Yet, despite a strong start to last season, he still couldn’t eliminate those niggling injuries from his game. He pulled his hamstring in a Reserve fixture against West Ham before suffering an ankle problem against Wolves in the FA Youth Cup, which paved the way for fellow striker Gilles Sunu to score a hat-trick.

In between those dark, dark days, there were some happier times for Rhys, most notably his brace against Aston Villa in the FA Youth Cup 3rd round at Villa Park, as Steve Bould’s side showed the character and fighting spirit which would ultimately go a long way to yielding the Gunners’ first success in the competition since 2001.

But Rhys’ most important strikes of the season both came against the same team- Arsenal’s North London rivals Tottenham.

His goal at White Hart Lane in the FA Youth Cup wrapped up a superb comeback from Bould’s boys, whilst his strike at the same venue proved to be invaluable as it was the goal which brought the Premier Academy League title to Shenley and sealed the first half of the double.

An England youth international, Rhys impressed for the Three Lions at u-17 level in the 2007 European Championships and was also part of the u-19 squad for their version of the tournament two years later.

This year could see him go out on loan, with Brighton reportedly interested, whilst, alternatively, the option of Reserve football is open.

One thing’s for sure, Rhys will simply be hoping to enjoy an injury-free season for both club and country.

Born November 6, 1990

Signed scholarship Summer 2007

Signed professional Summer 2008