The record for the youngest Premier League players was created in the Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Fulham match at the Molineux Stadium on Saturday (05/04/2019). The match became a history for Fulham midfielder, Harvey Elliott.
In his age of 16 years and 30 days, he became the youngest player to play in the Premier League competition. The player was born on April 4, 2003 and carried number 56 for the team.
Fulham’s caretaker coach Scott Parker entrusted Elliot to play when his team was in a state of being left behind. Elliot entered the field in the 88th minute after replacing Andre Anguissa. However, Fulham failed to score the equalizing goal and lost 0-1.
“He deserves a chance to play,” Parker said after the match, as reported by Sky Sports. “Harvey has special talent. He is one of the players we build and we will try to change him to become a top player,” he said.
With that record, now Elliot defeated Matthew Briggs who for 12 years carried the youngest player in Premier League history. Uniquely, Matthew broke the record also while in Fulham costume in 2007.
Elliot made his debut for Fulham at age of 15 years old against Millwall in EFL Cup, known also as Carabao Cup. In the away match on 25 September 2018, he appeared as substitute for Floyd Ayite in 81st minute. Hence, he also become the League Cup’s youngest ever participant.
Cottagers boss Jokanovic said: “We believe the future can be bright ahead of him. He had some tests at school today and he must be at school tomorrow morning. He is arrogant but in a positive way.”
“This kid shows he has personality,”he says. “I want to show you I am a very good player.” I say, “OK if you can show me, I give you this opportunity”.
Elliot then has been linked to Barcelona. It is said that he will follow in Ryan Sessegnon’s footstep.
Following is the list of the youngest English Premier League players:
- Harvey Elliot (Fulham) – 16 years, 30 days (05/5/2019)
- Matthew Briggs (Fulham) – 16 years, 68 days (04/13/2007)
- Isaiah Brown (West Brommich Albion) – 16 years, 117 days (5/5/2013)
- Aaron Lennon (Leeds United) – 16 years, 129 days (8/23/2003)
- Jose Baxter (Everton ) – 16 years, 191 days (8/16/2008)