Imps’ youngster Gianluca Bucci has been named in ‘The 11’ which recognises the very best young players from academies across the country, as reported by the official club website
Bucci has been with the club for four years now and is highly-rated by the coaches and his teammates. He recently played a key role in the youngsters FA Youth Cup win against Wrexham, which set up a tantalising tie with Manchester United in the next round.
The young defender has seen some recognition for his hard work by being named in the LFE’s (League Football Education) ‘The 11’. ‘The 11’ are (predictably) 11 players picked not only for their football progression but also for their academic achievement. They’re all chosen from current or former EFL clubs and are assessed on other criteria too, including involvement in community or charity-based initiatives.
Centre back Bucci recently turned 17 and has impressed for a couple of seasons now. He caught the eye against West Brom in last year’s FA Youth Cup, as well as leading the back line in this season’s run. He’s a commanding presence but also speaks very well, showing clarity and maturity that marks him out as a possible full-time professional of the future.
LFE Regional Officer Carl Craner explained the reason he’s been included in the 11, saying: “Luca has had a really good period both in the classroom and on the pitch. He is a mature, hard-working student and – according to his coaches – demands high standards from other players and is always striving to improve his game.”
It’s also noted on the LFE website that since returning for the second year of his apprenticeship, Bucci has increased his efforts academically, working at a D*D*D* grade profile on the Extended Diploma – surpassing his triple Distinction target.
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