Coventry City manager Frank Lampard believes Brandon Thomas-Asante has the character, ability and determination to succeed in the English Premier League after progressing from non-league football.
The Ghana international’s rise through the English game has been gradual. He started out with National League clubs Ebbsfleet United and Sutton United before making his breakthrough at Salford City in League Two.
His performances for Salford led to a move to West Bromwich Albion in the Championship, and he later reached the Premier League after joining Coventry City.
Lampard says Thomas-Asante’s approach to training and his commitment to improving have been central to his development. The Coventry manager also views the forward’s career as an example for players in the lower divisions who hope to reach the top level.
“From knowing him now from working close up with him, a huge part of that is his mentality towards it. He’s fought his way up the leagues. He trains at such a level every day to try and maximise himself,” Lampard said.
The 27-year-old has had to work his way through each level of the English football system, rather than moving directly into the professional game at the highest standard.
Lampard believes that experience, combined with Thomas-Asante’s physical qualities, gives him the tools to compete in the Premier League. He highlighted the striker’s strength, anticipation and ability to hold the ball up as important parts of his game.
The Coventry manager also made clear that he regarded Thomas-Asante as an important player for the club from the moment he took charge. Lampard said he was convinced the Ghanaian forward could make a significant contribution to the team.
“Brandon’s got them and I’m a big supporter of his and believer in his and when I came up I was like, he’s absolutely for me at this football club, to be able to offer so much,” he added.
Thomas-Asante’s route from Ebbsfleet United and Sutton United in the National League to Salford City, West Bromwich Albion and then Coventry City has taken him through non-league football, League Two and the Championship before reaching the Premier League.
For Lampard, that path underlines the importance of persistence, hard work and attitude in a professional football career. He believes Thomas-Asante’s willingness to keep developing, together with his talent and determination, can enable him to succeed at the highest level.