Tottenhams young prospect Archie Gray keen to build on debut senior strike
Young Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Archie Gray remains focused on his development following his initial professional goal during a key 1-0 triumph against Crystal Palace.
Gray shouldered blame for Tottenhams goal conceded in their 3-0 setback versus Nottingham Forest two weeks prior, after losing the ball near his own penalty box, though manager Thomas Frank offered support in the aftermath.
The 19-year-old kept his midfield role for Spurs and repaid the trust at Selhurst Park by heading home from near the line for his maiden senior strike on his 112th outing at that level.
"It proved tough for me at Forest," Gray remarked after contributing to Tottenhams second Premier League victory in nine outings.
"The error was clearly on me yet in that match I aimed to handle the ball often, stay proactive and move past the slip.
"This match was not my finest either as it turned quite messy but netting a goal fulfils every young players dream," he added via SpursPlay.
"We recognised that maintaining a shutout would create openings for us to score. Our defensive line excelled and the teams overall mindset shone through.
"I simply ended up positioned perfectly and likely Richys (Richarlisons) initial touch made all the difference. I stood just two yards from the net?
"It took little effort on my part but the sensation was unreal."
Gray hails from a family steeped in professional football, with kin like Eddie and Frank Gray who starred for the famed Leeds side of the early 1970s.
Guidance from his father Andy Gray, ex-Nottingham Forest striker, aided his bounce back from the latest lapse.
"Dad has long advised me that post-error one should seek the ball again without fear," Gray shared. "That lesson has stayed with me and I will never avoid possession or similar.
"Hiding from the game is not my style now or ever. Errors occur in football at times and I must simply draw lessons from them. I have done so and keep refining in daily sessions to correct it."