Louis Sprosen Exclusive Interview

10.02.09

Like Coleman & Dundas, Lillington & Whitmarsh and Stevens & McEwen; there could be a new sizzling partnership on the horizon of Champion Hill, with youngsters Tom Pratt and Louis Sprosen arguably becoming the heartbeat of the Dulwich youth side. And indeed their efforts haven't gone unnoticed, Hamlet Supremo Craig Edwards calling the exhilarating duo up to 1st team duties on a number of occasions. It seems just matter of time before the pair make their debuts, and after recently signing Ryman League forms it will now seem closer than ever.

Naturally, signing up for 1st team selection was a great achievement for Sprosen, with the youngster clearly excited about the consequences of the accomplishment.

"Yeah I think it's great, I'm just glad to be involved now and signing the forms must mean the management team have seen something in me." Sprosen told dulwichhamletfc.co.uk "Hopefully I can start to be involved on a regular basis and be a part of the squad."

Of course with a recent barren run of production from the youth team set up, many supporters would not be blamed for thinking this recent rush of excitement may result in little or nothing, however, this added pressure seems to bring the best out of Dulwich's new starlet.

"I enjoy the pressure. It gives me a buzz and makes me perform better. You're never going to be a good player if you cant live up to that pressure."

With Dulwich still in two cup competitions, it will provide Edwards prime opportunities to test his new prodigies, albeit against two of the greatest sides currently in semi-professional football – AFC Wimbledon and Dover Athletic.

"I can't wait to make my debut, I just want to play and test my self at that level. I was pleased with my performance at Potters Bar and feel I can give more a lot more. I'm coming to the end of youth team football so this opportunity has come at a good time for me."

And since Edwards has incorporated the midfielder into 1st team training, it seems the atmosphere amongst those in the Dulwich ranks has had a wonderful effect on Sprosen.

"I've enjoyed it, the atmosphere in the changing room is a good one and they have made me and Pratty [Tom Pratt] feel welcome. They are a good bunch of players and realistically they should be higher up in the table then what they are. It's also been good experience for me just to see what senior football is about and the standard of the league."

However, he recognises he still has some work to do, despite a very promising season so far and looks forward to the inevitably fruitful partnership between him and fellow Hamlet wunderkind Tom Pratt.

"I think it's been a good season for me, I am pleased with the way I have been playing and being involved with the first team has been a bonus really. One criticism I have of myself is that I should score more goals. However, I have created many for others. Me and [Tom] Pratt have been playing together since we were 12 and our partnership has always been lethal. He makes good runs and my job is finding a pass with enough quality to provide him with a chance."

One thing sure to please the Hamlet faithful is a player two-footed player. Much praise was reserved for past players Kenny Beaney and Chris Dickson, not only for their undoubted ability but also for their skill for using both feet effectively. Luckily, it seems that Dulwich's new sensation has that capability.

"I think I could bring something to the team, being two-footed is a big advantage and helps me create a lot of chances in the final third. I think I could be a good asset to the team because I have a good delivery from set plays and as Ian Neal says I can "Put it on a sixpence"".

With Dulwich debatably still in the hunt for success from 3 competitions - Ryman South League, Ryman League Cup and Surrey Senior Cup, it seems it would be a perfect time for Sprosen to secure his first silverware at such a young age.

"It would be great to see Dulwich win something this season or gain promotion. If I get called up it would be great to be involved in a winning dressing room and it would be a good way to start off senior football. I think the team is capable of winning both cups and I hope we go all the way."

Being involved with the squad has meant Dulwich's new whiz has got the chance to see the potential of a side that many believe is hiding its potential at the moment. Indeed, it appears that Sprosen too, has been impressed with the team and its unquestionable capabilities.

"If I'm being honest I have been impressed with the standard and all the players have been good, it's hard to pick one player really. But overall, Laurent [Hamici] has impressed me. He's a good goalscorer with a lot of quality. Stanley Muguo also impressed me in Potters Bar game, he's a good experienced player and never stopped praising me and that helped me a lot during the game."

It seems inevitable that the Pink 'n' Blues young midfield maestro takes centre stage at Champion Hill in 1st team colours very soon.