Player Profile: Chase O'Neil, Forward
Last Updated: 06/10/16 12:30pm
![](https://uatimg.skysports.com/11/04/660x350/academy-blog-posts-playersneil-o-neil_2582485.jpg?20110407091608)
Chase knows all about hitting the ground running. Joining the Nike Academy midway through the season, the promising midfielder was immediately thrust into a tantalising trip to Paris Saint-Germain.
Chase knows all about hitting the ground running. Joining the Nike Academy midway through the season, the promising midfielder was immediately thrust into a tantalising trip to Paris Saint-Germain.
"There was no time for nerves. Once the whistle blew, I had to focus and get on with the job," says Chase. With the scores locked at 0-0 and just five minutes left, a relentless PSG refused to budge. But when the ball broke to Chase inside the area, he fired home the winner.
This kind of performance has proved typical from a player who's quickly become one of the Academy's most consistent match-day performers. And it's this kind of test Chase relishes: "Everything's different in game situations, the level, the competition. The more you play the better you become."
Chase's hunger to play began as a child. "I've had a football at my feet for as long as I can remember. I've never wanted to do anything else." This obsession paid off, helping Chase into West Ham's youth setup and then on to an impressive scholarship with a top Premier League club when he was 16.
After getting into the Nike Academy, Chase is relishing his opportunity. "The Academy is giving me the exposure I need to get scouted and go professional. That's obviously what I train for. The coaches are really helping me improve in the number 10 role. It's all about being that crucial link between the midfield and the striker. When I watch players like Rafael van der Vaart and Wesley Sneijder in that position, it inspires me to perform like them."
Follow Chase's progress on Facebook.com/nikeacademy and see how far his passion takes him.