The academy has not been the most pressing concern this season for Crystal Palace, but they are right to acknowledge talented players when they come along.
And come along one has. The 17-year-old Luke Dreher, a central midfielder capable of making surging runs, or defence-splitting passes, has been named on the bench for the Eagles’ Premier League match away at Manchester United.
The opportunity for a young player to travel with the squad to a game is a coveted one, and not one which is given to anyone. The player must have the right levels of commitment, talent and understanding of the game for it to even be a consideration. Dreher has all three in abundance.
Still eligible for the U18 side, he has been a regular for the U21s this season, scoring several goals and contributing assists since his debut against rivals Millwall at the New Den back in October in very changeable conditions, from blazing sunshine to heavy hailstones.
The teenager didn’t look out of place, but Palace were poor and succumbed to a heavy defeat. Nonetheless, he and Aaron Bissaka were the two stand-out performers, and immediately it was clear Dreher would remain in the U21 side for the rest of the season.
A local boy, he joined Palace at the age of eight, having spent time with Carshalton Athletic and also with Fulham and Chelsea’s development centres, before eventually being spotted by Palace.
The long-serving youngster was part of a strong intake of scholars last season, and has gone from strength to strength since. His home debut for the U18 side saw him earn a last minute penalty within minutes of coming off the substitute’s bench against Charlton Athletic.
He recently spoke to eagles.cpfc.co.uk to reveal that the transition from U18 football to U21 had been difficult to begin with, but that is understandable given the higher tempo and the higher average age of players involved.
Dreher likes to get forward with the ball and influence games with the ball at his feet, his passing accuracy and ability is a strong attribute and he has good vision.
Alan Pardew has clearly been impressed by the efforts shown by the midfielder who has stepped up to train with the first-team squad on a frequent basis this season. Understandably he has weaknesses, but they have been addressed as the year has progressed, with the former Whitgift School pupil’s defensive capabilities improving.
Should he bulk up and gain muscle over the close season, a loan to a Football League club is likely next season, although he is almost certain to begin the season with the U21s and training regularly with the first team.
Whilst it is too early to say with any degree of certainty how Dreher’s future will pan out, it does look promising, and all the signs are that he will be an excellent player, provided he continues his progression and works hard. In time, there is no reason why he will not return to Old Trafford and set foot on the pitch.
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