Five potential contenders for November's NAB Young Footballer of the Month
The kids are definitely alright in Hyundai A-League Season 2018/19.
But who could be in contention to win the NAB Young Footballer of the Month award for November?
We’ve assessed some of the candidates below!
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Christopher Ikonomidis - Perth Glory
Hyundai A-League fans were itching to see more of the jet-heeled 23-year-old after his loan-spell with Western Sydney Wanderers last season, and Ikonomidis has not disappointed since arriving at Perth Glory.
The Glory attacker has been in fine form for the Western Australians, and served up one of the headline moments of the competition with a stoppage time winner against Melbourne Victory in Round 2.
Ikonomidis has struck up a formidable understanding with Andy Keogh, which was on display in Round 3’s 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar.
And he was on the score-sheet late on again in Round 4’s statement win over Adelaide United, ensuring Glory flagged their Hyundai A-League title credentials.
Apostolos Stamatelopoulos - Adelaide United
In the absence of Baba Diawara, Apostolos Stamatelopoulos might just be the focal point Adelaide United can stake their title claim on.
The Young Socceroo opened his account for the season in Round 3’s win over the Central Coast Mariners, a match that also saw him function with the Reds front line in impressive tandem.
That performance showed the teenage talent is more than able to mix it with seasoned Hyundai A-League operators, and his progress for the Reds will be keenly monitored for the rest of the season.
Riley McGree - Melbourne City
Melbourne City’s mercurial talent needed just a couple of minutes to announce his intentions for the new campaign.
McGree arrived off the bench in Round 1’s Melbourne Derby to score with his first involvement, and has since been central to City’s midfield flow.
The 20-year-old from Gawler has made three 90-minute appearances in a row since his opening day heroics.
Lachlan Wales - Melbourne City
The versatile attacker has quietly been flying under the radar following his move from Central Coast Mariners to Melbourne City.
Wales has epitomised the work-rate and diligence Warren Joyce has demanded of his side in the early rounds.
He has also displayed a keen eye for a pass, illustrated by his excellent assist for Ritchie De Laet in Round 4’s 2-0 win over Wellington Phoenix.
Keanu Baccus - Western Sydney Wanderers
With older brother Kearyn seeking pastures new, Keanu Baccus has taken the Wanderers midfield reins with an intelligence beyond his years.
Composed on the ball and tigerish in defence, the 20-year-old has been a consistent performer for Markus Babbel’s side, making four 90-minute performances.
The Wanderers youth product claimed an assist for Jordan O’Doherty in the team’s 3-0 win over Wellington Phoenix in Round 3, and has generally been an assured presence in the middle third.
