Michael Hyem is clearly enjoying being part of the CRC team. The 17-year-old midfielder has been an ever-present this season, and his dynamic performances in the centre of midfield have certainly caught the eye.
Michael prides himself on his touch and his passing ability, which have certainly been in evidence in a league where the midfield can often be bypassed, with the long ball frequently the order of the day, but Michael and the other CRC midfielders have had no other option than to get to grips with the new environment.
The Ridgeons League is vastly different to youth and reserve leagues, not only because of the added competitiveness but also the physical demands, with the youngsters coming up against hardened, seasoned individuals often with more clout than class.
Michael's progression and development in the league has been, by his own admission, in no small part thanks to the CRC coaching team; Jez George, Nolan Keeley and Dick Hall.
And Mike has clearly learnt a great deal from them as he has become a major exponent of the "Nolan Keeley shielding-the-ball" technique, which, we are assured, is used by players throughout the world.
Anyone who has had the pleasure of seeing Mike and his team-mates in action this term will have noticed, by and large, that the team have begun to get the measure of the league, as has been shown in the quality of some of their goals, with the midfield - and Hyem in particular - influential.
Furthermore, ex-Peterborough youngster Michael is capable of both creating and scoring goals - which he appreciates are key qualities for a midfielder to be successful in the modern game.
Mike has already opened his account for the season, providing the finish to an excellent team move in the opening fixture at Norwich United, and he will undoubtedly be hoping to add to his tally as the year progresses.
Consistent performer Michael is a great admirer of former Cambridge City colleague and current United front man Michael Gash (right).
He comments, "Gashy is a natural goal scorer and a good person, I enjoy watching him."
This just shows how the more senior players are able to influence those less experienced individuals. There is a lot to be said for the senior players taking time to aid the development and progression of their club mates, and undoubtedly the CRC players will revel in the experience of training with the first-team squad and management.
The first team is overflowing with characters that have experienced league football as well as local football, and if they can pass on just a few ounces of knowledge, Michael and the youth teams will surely benefit.
Undoubtedly, Michael-the-younger is able to identify with the footballing path that Gashy has followed, from Cambridge City Reserves to the Cambridge United first team. And to achieve this feat is one of Mikey's ambitions; he aims to "get in the first team and do well to achieve a regular place."
In the longer term, Glasgow Rangers fan Mike intends "to play at the highest level" not to mention earning enough money so he doesn't have to work! Well, what better way to earn money than playing the best sport in the world, and with the premier team in the world? Though of course, money isn't the be-all and end-all, as Michael will realise.
He has already experienced relative success in the game, during his time with renowned local side Brampton Spartans where they won "every game, not losing or drawing a game in the season and winning every trophy possible." Everyone at Cambridge United will hope such an achievement can be mirrored at youth, reserve and first team level!
Mike Hyem is a native of Brampton, and those of you who like a bit of trivia will probably already know that Brampton's most famous resident to date has been 17th century chap Samuel Pepys ("Adrian Mole and you know you are"). Perhaps one day Michael will achieve such notoriety, though hopefully for his footballing ability, which is undoubted.
Michael and the CRC team would appreciate your support so if you are not watching the first team, why not take a first look at the stars of tomorrow?
By Henry Milward
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