JACOB Knightbridge may be used to turning out for England Under 17s and West Ham United, but says he is relishing the prospect of donning the number one jersey at Harrow Borough this season – just to play in front of fans!
The 18-year-old goalkeeper has been with the Hammers' Academy since the age of seven and was a regular figure for the U18s last season, helping Kevin Keen's young Irons keep 13 clean sheets in 23 league outings.
His reward was a first professional deal with the club over the summer and, to continue his development, Knightbridge has signed a season-long loan deal with Steve Baker's side in the Southern League Premier South.
Knightbridge turned out for Borough in two pre-season matches before making his senior debut in the 0-0 draw at Tiverton yesterday.
And it's fair to say the young stopper likes what he sees so far – especially playing in front of a new army of fans.
“I'm looking forward to playing for a club where we go to teams away with more fans,” Knightbridge told Harrow's YouTube channel.
“Playing Under 18s for England and West Ham, you don't get as many fans watching but, like on Tuesday night at Chertsey where there was only 300, that was something I've always wanted to do.
“Non-League football is a lot different to academy football but that's the challenge I want. Being young in this league, coming up against bigger, more physical opponents.
Playing Tuesday-Saturday, it's tough but I have to make sure I am string enough to deal with it and hopefully I can have a good season here. I'm really looking forward to it.
“Harrow is a good, local opportunity for me, who play at a good standard. I think I've settled in nicely. They're a great bunch of lads and I've enjoyed playing with them so far.”
