Another American player has begun their professional career with Fulham. Remember the name: Emerson Hyndman.
You may already know his name, as Emerson’s grandfather Schellas was head coach of FC Dallas for five seasons up until last year. Well, his 18-year-old Grandson is making quite the name for himself in West London.
[RELATED: Hyndman stars for Fulham’s]
On Saturday the American midfielder made his debut for Felix Magath’s side in their season opener in the Championship, England’s second-tier. The Cottagers, who were relegated from the Premier League last season, lost 2-1 to Ipswich Town and in total nine players were making their debut for Fulham.
Hyndman played in central midfield and despite his slight frame in the physical Championship, the teenager held his own for the entire 90 minutes and recorded a pass success rate of 89 per cent.
Speaking to Fulham’s website the academy product had the following to say about his first taste of pro soccer.
“I didn’t find out I was going to be playing until the day,” Hyndman said. “It was a great moment – I was very excited, nervous, a lot of different emotions flying through but I think now that I have that experience behind me it will serve me well. It’s my goal to play as many games as possible. My initial goal was to make my debut this season and that’s come pretty quick so now I just want to build on that.
“It was better than I thought it would be. It is a physical league, especially against an Ipswich side which is known for it. Coming into it and seeing all the big guys, it’s different but I think I coped with it well and as the game went on I just got used to it.”
The U.S. youth international, who has represented the Stars and Stripes at U-17 level, has a bright future in store as his clever passing, intricate dribbles and eagerness to get on the ball shone through. To be battling it out in the Championship at the age of 18 is really something, as England’s second-tier is a rough and tumble division to say the least. Magath is expected to lean heavily on Hyndman and his fellow academy products this season as youth will be given a chance to shine down by the River Thames.
After being handed the No. 28 shirt this season, Hyndman becomes the ninth American-born player to suit up for Fulham and U.S. soccer fans will be keeping on eye on his progress as Fulham aim for immediate promotion back to the Premier League. Having spoken to folks in and around Fulham, they certainly have high hopes for Hyndman. A future U.S. international in the making perhaps?
