Like Raheem Sterling, one of his footballing idols, AFC Bournemouth teenager Kian Tydeman says religion has helped shape his fledgling career.
The 18-year-old hit the ground running when he netted twice in the Cherries development squad’s 2-1 win over Poole Town in their opening pre-season friendly on Tuesday.
Attacking midfielder Tydeman last season graduated from the under-18s having overcome some major periods of adversity during his two-year scholarship.
Released by Fulham, he joined the Cherries as an under-15, scoring and assisting prolifically to earn an extended stay in the club’s academy.
But his world came crashing down when he sustained a serious back injury which kept him sidelined for the majority of his first year with the under-18s.
Tydeman, a cousin of Republic of Ireland international Will Smallbone, showed great resolve and determination to hit the comeback trail, only for a calf problem to disrupt the start of his second season.
But the talented youngster again dug deep, winning elevation to the development squad following a series of eye-catching displays with the under-18s, culminating in them lifting the EFL Youth Alliance title.
Speaking to afcb.co.uk following his finely-taken double against Poole Town, Tydeman said: “I’m quite religious and always pray before games. I believe God is watching over me. Whenever I score, I always thank God for making it happen.
“I have a Bible verse on my arm and always remember it – The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him and he helps me.
“It’s a meaningful quote for me because I’ve grown up being religious and God has always been by my side.”
Tydeman’s composed finish on 72 minutes and his emphatic winner three minutes from time saw the Cherries turn the tide after Wes Fogden had drawn first blood for the Dolphins.
“It felt great to get a couple of goals, especially in the first game back,” added Tydeman. “I’ve worked hard for this and the goals will give me a lot of confidence.
“It was a pleasing result. I work hard in training on my finishing and, luckily, it came off in a game. It shows hard work pays off.
“It was a tough game at some points but I thought we dealt with it really well. We worked as a team and, out of possession, we worked really hard to win back the ball.
“For me personally, it’s been great being back on the pitch. I had a couple of long injury layoffs during my scholarship but, hopefully, that’s all in the past now.
“I had a good end to last season which earned me a place in the development squad so I’m glad it paid off.
“It’s a big step up from the under-18s, both in terms of quality and work rate. All the players have great quality so we’re all trying to better ourselves.”
Tydeman and his teammates will be hoping to impress when they continue their pre-season games programme against Weymouth at the Bob Lucas Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).
Pictures courtesy of Robin Jones and Ian Middlebrook.
