Next step, next challenge for Japhet

It’s a long journey from Academy to first team, and Japhet Tanganga is driven to take the final, arguably hardest step of all now he’s signed a new deal until 2025.

That step, of course, is to become a regular in the squad and the team, over time, and follow in the footsteps of the likes of Harry Kane and Harry Winks, who graduated from the Academy to become mainstays of the Club.

For now though, another day to remember for the Tanganga family. “It means a lot, it’s a great day for me, my family, my loved ones and I’m very happy, very grateful,” said Japhet, 21, who described those next steps. “I’ll be focussed and give as much as I can to become a better player, to give what I can to help the Club win trophies and reach the targets and goals we’ve set each other.”

Japhet memorably made his debut in the Premier League against champions Liverpool at the new stadium on 11 January. He won his early duels, cleared an effort off the line inside five minutes and just grew and grew from there, keeping his place for the FA Cup replay against Middlesbrough three days later.

Seven months down the line, he has 11 appearances under his belt, a new deal - and the life experience of a young man, not just professional footballer, in lockdown as the country fought the coronavirus.

“I’ve already said to some people, this is definitely a year I’ll never forget,” he said. “Credit to the Academy staff, they’ve prepared us for moments like this. They’ve helped us a lot.

“For me, a lot of it is about showing the characteristics that I knew I had before, and other stuff I’ve shown as well that I never thought I had. It’s been an experience I’ll never forget.

“I just want to focus on my football now. I’ll keep my head down, keep doing the things that allowed me to get into this position and keep working on the things I need to improve on. I’ll work on becoming a better player each day, take it day by day and when I’m called upon by the manager to play, make sure I give good performances.”

As always, Japhet took everything in his stride. “I’ve got to stay calm and collected, but inside I’m ecstatic,” he added.