An introduction to Jordan Collins, the first in a series of features on the scholars.

It's been an exciting and eventful few months for Jordan Collins. The CRC captain has twice appeared in the first-team squad, sitting alongside the likes of Courtney Pitt and Rob Wolleaston, and though his first-team bow was not forthcoming, Jordan's chance will surely come.

And when asked of his short-term ambitions, Jordan assures us his aim is to "become a first-team player and earn a professional contract." And a squad place is certainly something to build on for the ambitious youngster.

Jordan began his youthful career at Ipswich Town, undoubtedly a club with a reputation for developing young players. 'Boris', as Jordan is known by his team-mates, indeed showed a great deal of potential at the Suffolk club, earning national recognition with England - taking part in a training camp at Under-15 level, an experience Jordan lists as one of the best moments of his fledgling career.

However, a broken leg unfortunately hampered Jordan's progress with Ipswich, and ultimately his chance to earn a scholarship there. And after six years at the club, Jordan moved to Cambridge City's youth scheme, and by all accounts the Milton Road outfit were delighted to have acquired the services of such a promising individual.

So, it was natural that Jordan should be retained by the set-up following its transfer to United, and Jez George soon made him captain of the inaugural Cambridge United reserve team - playing in the Ridgeon's Premier League under the banner of CRC. It is clearly a role he has revelled in.

Jordan lists his main strengths as his left foot, his vision and his passing - all qualities CRC-watchers will have witnessed so far this season, not to mention the Cambridge United management team. Jordan has trained with the first-team regularly, and, along with fellow scholars Craig Bussens and Phil Smith, appeared in pre-season games, toe-to-toe with such stars as Robert Earnshaw and Yousef Safri.

It could be argued though that Jordan's forte is his versatility - having played in midfield, at left back and on the left wing already this year, and to great effect in each.

Those who have already witnessed Jordan in action will not be surprised to hear that the footballer he most admires is Michael Carrick. Tottenham fan Jordan comments: "He is so good on the ball and always comfortable receiving the ball in tight situations." Well, the Manchester United and England star is certainly a player to emulate.

Jordan played a big part in the CRC team's first ever win - a 2-1 victory away at King's Lynn on September 2nd; it was his cross that produced the first goal for Sam Cutler, and with his cultured left-foot, he is a striker's dream!

We must not forget that Chelmsford-lad Jordan, as many of the other CRC scholars, is living away from home - in nearby digs - so hopefully Cambridge fans can make him, and the other players, feel welcome.

The players also study at Cambridge Regional College, whilst working towards their Level 1 or 2 coaching awards.

With luck, Jordan Collins' progression will continue, and he will achieve his goals of earning that professional contract and we hope he will eventually be able to play at the highest level and make a living from the game with Cambridge United.

By Henry Milward

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