Scout Report – Joe Bryan
Everton, Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly engaged in a three-way tussle to land Bristol City defender Joe Bryan. Rated at £7million, the promising full-back’s performances have been influential enough to earn attention from the Premier League and if either of these clubs finds its way, the youngster could be set for a move to the top-flight quite soon.
Interestingly, he was named the Man Of The Match when Bristol City beat Manchester United in a historic Carabao Cup encounter earlier this season and that itself goes on to show what he is capable of. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the player’s profile.
History
Born in 1993 in Bristol, England, Bryan joined his hometown club as a youth player and has been with them ever since. He quickly rose through the ranks and put in some stellar performances, which earned him his first professional contract in 2011. However, later that year, Bryan joined Bath City on loan but in 2012, he came back to Bristol.
He made his first-team debut for the side in March that year but was eventually loaned out to Plymouth Argyle. At that club, he played as a midfielder on several occasions and returned to Bristol City at the end of the spell. From then on, he started playing more regularly for the club, which awarded him a contract extension in 2015. Last campaign, Bryan truly blossomed towards reaching his true potential and his hard work seems to have paid off now.
Playing Style
Since he has experience playing as a midfielder, Bryan’s attacking contributions are quite generous as well, meaning he is likely to do well as a wing-back. That said, he never neglects his defensive duties and has proven to be a rock on Bristol’s left-wing. The Championship club have been in exemplary form this season and Bryan has had a major role to play in their good fortunes. His ability to get up and down the flank with ease is truly commendable. His concentration almost never wavers and he boasts of top-notch dribbling and passing skills as well.
Bryan’s Future
While interest from the Premier League might sound like a big deal for the 24-year-old, it remains to be seen if he actually chooses to leave his boyhood club. To be fair, he could work wonders at all three clubs since they are in dire need of an attack-oriented full-back. However, luring him away might prove to be a tad bit tough. Nevertheless, if any of these clubs manage to sign him, he would undoubtedly be a solid long-term addition.