Lampard backs Ghanaian forward Thomas-Asante for Premier League challenge
Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has described Ghana international Brandon Thomas-Asante as a model for footballers seeking to rise from the lower divisions to the Premier League. The 26-year-old forward has earned Lampard's backing following Coventry's promotion to the English top flight, with his work ethic, adaptability and determination making him an important member of the squad.
Thomas-Asante's rise has been shaped by a series of moves through the English football pyramid, beginning with National League clubs Ebbsfleet United and Sutton United before he established himself at Salford City in League Two. His performances at Salford earned him a transfer to Championship side West Bromwich Albion, from where he continued his progress before joining Coventry and reaching the Premier League.
Lampard believes the Ghanaian has the right attitude and technical qualities to compete at the highest level, pointing to his commitment in training and desire to improve as key factors behind his progress. "Yeah, I think he does," Lampard said when asked whether Thomas-Asante looked like a Premier League player.
"From knowing him now, from working close up with him, a huge part of that is his mentality towards it. He's fought his way up the leagues.
He trains at such a level every day to try and maximise himself. He engages with you, and he's got this real hunger to show that he believes he deserves to be here.
The former Chelsea and England midfielder also highlighted the forward's physical presence, technical ability and effectiveness when holding up the ball as qualities that could help Coventry compete in the top division. Having guided the club into the Premier League, Coventry have been strengthening their squad to prepare for the demands of the competition.
Lampard believes Thomas-Asante already possesses several of the attributes required to make an impact. And he's got talent, and when you get promoted, and you go, 'What do we need in this squad?' Yeah, we need to bring in physicality and anticipation and good qualities, hold-up play.
Brandon's got them, and I'm a big supporter of his and a believer in him. When I came up, I was like, he's absolutely for me at this football club, to be able to offer so much," he added.
Thomas-Asante's ability to perform in different attacking positions has also strengthened his standing within the team. He can operate on either flank, behind the main striker or as a central forward, giving Lampard greater flexibility when selecting his attacking line-up.