Boasting trademark Jamaican pace and tricky dribbling, Leon Bailey has blossomed into one of the most promising wingers outside of Europe’s top five leagues, with a superb Europa League campaign. After leaving Jamaica, Bailey had trials with several different clubs, before settling in Slovakia’s AS Trencin. His story is the tale of multiple transfer failures and European red tape from football associations, but he has found himself establishing his reputation across the continent with his performances in Belgium. Had it not been for the litany of U-18 player restrictions, he would be at Ajax now, providing a much needed change from the uninspiring, languid performances of Lasse Schöne and Anwar El Ghazi. His agility and ability to blow past defenders make scouts awestruck, but he needs to strengthen his decision making and ball retention. Nonetheless, he would be an astute bet for any team needing a bit of spark in January.
Photo Credit: Reuters