The quality Maresca loves which means Acheampong could be first choice until Fofana returns

Injury brings opportunity in football, and Josh Acheampong is benefitting more than most.

Just a couple of months ago he was an outcast – denied minutes in both the Development Squad and the first team until he signed a new contract. But understandably, the 18 year old wasn’t keen to sign anything without promises of first team action. It was a Catch 22 which looked unlikely to be broken.

But then – injuries. Reece James was ruled out, and his replacement Malo Gusto was stretched to his limit covering for the club captain. With European fixtures piling up, Acheampong was convinced that chances were coming his way, and he signed the deal. Since then he’s played a fair amount, and has clearly impressed manager Enzo Maresca.

Josh Acheampong playing Shamrock Rovers. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

James is back now and fit enough for the bench today, but the versatile Acheampong isn’t being squeezed out – in fact, today he makes his Premier League debut. His ability to play centre back means that the injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile have played into his hands. With right back now covered, the teenager moves into the middle to partner fellow academy graduate Levi Colwill.

Tosin Adarabioyo and Axel Disasi have not impressed in recent games, and we love Maresca’s confidence in dropping both those safer options to hand a kid their full debut in central defence.

If Acheampong does well, he could hold down the position until at least Badiashile is back at the end of February – and perhaps beyond. Maresca bemoaned the loss of Fofana because of his speed which allows the team to defend high up the pitch. Acheampong brings that athleticism in spades, and it gives him the edge over Badiashile, Tosin and Disasi.