Brisbane Roar will farewell their star striker Besart Berisha at the end of the A-League season, but there remains plenty of attacking talent on show in NPL Queensland this season.

Could some of these exciting footballers put themselves in the shop-front window with an outstanding 2014 in the National Premier Leagues? You be the judge.

Jai Ingham (Olympic FC/Brisbane Roar Youth)

Olympic’s break-out star of 2013, Jai Ingham is already on the verge of a senior football at Roar after impressive performances in the Foxtel National Youth League this summer. His self-belief and blistering turn of pace are Ingham’s greatest weapons, often overshadowing his impressive link-up play with the midfield. However, consistency remains the bread-and-butter of any professional footballer, and another solid season in NPL Queensland will establish the 20-year-old as more than a flash in the pan.

Matt Thurtell (Brisbane Strikers)

A former Brisbane Roar youth player, 2012 QSL Golden Boot Matt Thurtell was primed for another prolific season in front of goal in 2013 before injury prematurely halted his campaign. Back in training following a knee reconstruction and lengthy rehabilitation, the 21-year-old remains one of the most complete strikers in the competition. He is equally adept with either foot and in the air, and while a return to peak fitness remains months away, Thurtell’s determination in the face of adversity is a sterling quality for any potential professional footballer.

Chris Lucas (Palm Beach Sharks)

Former Gold Coast United youth player Chris Lucas is the kind of footballer that suits Roar’s game – quick, adaptable and clever. Despite being used predominantly in midfield last season, Lucas still topped the Sharks goal scoring charts, a testament to his positioning and ability to read the game. Lucas is also well known to Roar Manager Mike Mulvey, with the former Gold Coast United boss handing Lucas his first A-League appearance against Sydney FC in 2011. A few timely performances in 2014 could well remind his former gaffer that the 21-year-old still has much to offer at the higher level.

Tom Murphy (FNQ FC Heat)

While not an out and out striker in the Berisha mould, Tom Murphy has the well-rounded game to suit Roar’s increasingly interchangeable front third. Murphy was one of several NPL Queensland talents to be invited to train with Roar last year and, despite failing to secure a deal for the summer, remains firmly on the club’s radar. Murphy was Heat’s Coach’s Player of the Year in 2013, and another similarly impressive season – plus a few goals – will strengthen his prospects of forging a path to the A-League.

Peter Drager (Western Pride)

Ipswich product Peter Drager is a striker in the Peter Crouch mould – tall, deceptively strong and near unstoppable when on song. While his height comes to the fore in aerial contests, his ability to control the ball at pace and as well as amidst traffic in the box offers an outlet for his midfielders in all situations. His 17 goals last campaign proves he has an eye for goal, however the unselfish marksman also played the final pass for many more.

Daniel Sharov (Brisbane City)

Strong, quick and blessed with a ferocious shot, Daniel Sharov is primed for a breakout year in NPL Queensland in 2014. While he played predominantly in the Under 20’s last season, Sharov caught the eye of many rival coaches with his commanding performances and this year has the chance to prove himself further at senior level. While not as polished as some of the candidates, Sharov offers an X-Factor and, with Roar previously willing to chance their hand on exciting youth talents, could he be the wildcard in the NPL Queensland deck?

 

Words & Image: Michael Flynn (Football Queensland)