AFCB

Development Squad

Toure swaps the pitch for the press box

Written by Neil Perrett

Development squad midfielder Toure Williams added another string to his bow when he joined the AFC Bournemouth media team for a live stream this week.

Williams, currently sidelined due to injury, gave his expert insight and opinion when he acted as a summariser for the Premier League Cup game against Wolves on Monday.

The 18-year-old playmaker joined BBC Radio Solent commentator Jordan Clark in the press box at Eastleigh’s Silverlake Stadium and gave his input into a convincing 5-1 win for the Cherries.

Williams, who has been on the books at Vitality Stadium since he was seven, told afcb.co.uk: “Summarising was different to say the least.

“You listen to commentators and summarisers on the telly and think it’s an easy job because all they do is talk about football.

“But it’s a lot harder than it looks. You have to think on the spot and think of the right words to say to describe what’s happening on the pitch.

“You have to try to give the viewers something that they aren’t seeing with their own eyes and that’s not always easy.

“I enjoyed it and it was a good experience for me to try something different. It keeps your brain engaged because you have to think as well as watch a game of football.

“With five well-taken goals and an excellent all-round team performance, the boys certainly gave me lots to talk about and made life a bit easier on my summarising debut.

“It was a very different experience. I thought it took me out of my comfort zone and brought me out of my shell a bit.

“I’m sure it’s something which will be good for my development as a footballer and as a person.

“You need to be confident with your delivery and you need to trust yourself. You can’t really think twice about what you are going to say and can’t fumble your words because it would ruin it.

“I love playing football and hope it’s something I will be involved with throughout my life, whether it’s playing, coaching or commentating and summarising. I can add those last two to the list now!”

The AFC Bournemouth development squad host Charlton Athletic in the Premier League Cup at Wimborne Town's New Cuthbury on Saturday (1pm kick-off). Entry and car parking are free.