Adams - Kaboul has it all

Kaboul could be the future

Last updated: 21st November 2008

Sunderland v Portsmouth Tony Adams

Adams: Hails Kaboul

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Pompey boss Tony Adams feels Younes Kaboul could be the future of the club.

The young centre-back has always operated in the shadows of skipper Sol Campbell, who Adams has preferred as his first choice so far this term.

Campbell, though, is one of 15-players out of contract at Fratton Park at the end of the season, meaning Kaboul could be given his chance to shine.

With captain Campbell free to talk to other clubs in January it could pave the way for the 22-year-old, who looks set to stand-in for his injured team-mate against Hull on Saturday.

Future

"Younes has got it all there, he's an athlete and a young footballer learning his trade from people like Sol," said Adams.

"He could be the future of the football club."

Former Pompey boss Harry Redknapp was responsible for bringing Kaboul to the club but the young Frenchman says he wouldn't be the player he is now were it not for the encouragement he has been given by Adams and his team-mates.

"I have learned a lot from Tony here," said Kaboul.

"When I was young I remember watching him on TV with the England squad and Arsenal.

"Now he is my manager and I am also working alongside Sol and Sylvain Distin. It could not be better education."

Learning curve

Kaboul looks set to make his tenth start of the campaign against Hull with Campbell sidelined with a toe injury.

Asked if being second choice in central-defence was a concern, Kaboul added: "I came to play even though I knew Sol and Sylvain were here but I am only 22 years old and I have to learn from them.

"Then when Sol is injured I play and try to do my best.

"I respect that and I have to just wait. I'm happy with that."