Airbus manager Craig Harrison believes he will have trouble keeping hold of teenage striker Jake Cassidy.

Despite being just 17 years of age the former Llandudno Junction striker has been sensational since signing for Airbus earlier this summer, netting seven goals in six pre-season appearances.

It is not just the number of goals that has seen Football League clubs linked with him, but the quality.

Cassidy was described as scoring a “Gasgoigne type goal” by Harrison in the victory over Droylsden, while he finished superbly against an Everton XI recently and showed composure to round Wrexham goalkeeper Scott Shearer on Tuesday night.

And Harrison, who played for Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace during an injury curtailed professional career, is confident Cassidy can make a living out of the game.

“He is destined to play higher and it will be tough to keep hold of him,” said Harrison.

“There is no reason why he can’t make a living out of the game, he is at an optimum learning age and is only going to get better.

“He has come to the club and thrived, his attitude reminds me of Wayne Rooney’s, he just wants to play football and his enthusiasm for the game is brilliant.

“His physical presence is phenomenal – a 17-year-old is knocking fully grown men about.

“He scored a great goal against Droylsden, it reminded me of Gasgoigne in Euro ’96, he lifted it over the defender’s head and volleyed it in the corner with his other foot.”

And Harrison believes Cassidy has the right temperament to succeed, although he is keen not to place too much pressure on his young shoulders.

“Playing in the Cymru Alliance has done him good,” said the Airbus chief. “It is important not to put too much pressure on him and I have not completely decided whether he will play in the opening game, although he is twisting my arm!

“It is strange to think that he is only just 17 and can’t even drive yet.”

He added: “He is a grounded lad, he comes from a nice family and that makes any success he has even better.”

Airbus continue their pre-season campaign tomorrow with a home encounter against Fylde, who will come up against Chester FC in Evo-Stick Division One North.

Elsewhere, Bala Town entertain FC United of Manchester, Gap Connah’s Quay make their way to Welsh Alliance outfit Holywell Town, Cefn Druids host Aberystwyth and Flint Town face Vauxhall.

Rhos Aelwyd also continue their plans for the Huws Gray Alliance with a home match against Venture, Denbigh tackle Porthmadog, and Ruthin Town visit
Chasetown.