Mark Ajayi

Published: 22 November, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

YOUNG striker Mark Ajayi has played his last game in the Camden and Regent’s Park Youth League after being snapped up by a professional club.

The talented 12-year-old, who lives in Queen’s Crescent, had already scored six goals in three games for AFC Islington and Camden this season.

So there was little surprise when Championship side Watford came calling to offer him a schoolboy contract.

The Greig City Academy pupil is determined to make the most of the big chance he has been given. “Playing for Watford is an amazing opportunity for me,” Mark said. “It will give me the chance to play and test myself at a very high level. Playing against other academies on a regular basis can only improve and develop me further. I am excited and taking each day as it comes as you can never be sure what the future holds.

“I need to knuckle down and try as hard as I can as this is only the beginning of my journey. I know how hard it is to make it as a professional footballer, so I’m not going to get carried away or take anything for granted.

“I would love to follow in the footsteps of former Watford player Ashley Young, and hopefully play in the Premier League and then one day play for my country.”