Roy has recently been called up to Albania’s U19 side as well as making regular appearances for the U18’s at The Hive London.

The second-year apprentice has made significant strides in the classroom, too. He remains on course to achieve high grades in the BTEC Extended Diploma, as well as completing his NVQ and FA Coaching award.

Speaking about Syla, his BTEC Tutor Lucy Morcombe has said “Roy is an excellent, independent learner with a strong work ethic.

“Roy has progressed very well over the course of the season. He provides role model attributes that other players should look up to.”

The on and off the pitch achievements of 11 young footballers has been recognised by League Football Education (LFE).

‘The 11’ acknowledges the football and academic progress of Under-18 players on apprenticeships at current or former English Football League (EFL) clubs – and is also designed to assess other factors including involvement in community or charity-based initiatives.

This accolade celebrates the holistic development of young players, a barometer which is also applied to the LFE Apprentice of the Year Awards presented at The EFL Awards dinner in April.

England Under-20 World Cup winners Ademola Lookman (formerly Charlton Athletic), Dael Fry (Middlesbrough), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (formerly Sheffield United) and Lewis Cook (formerly Leeds United) have all previously been named in ‘The 11’. Everton forward Lookman and AFC Bournemouth midfielder Cook also went on to become Apprentice of the Year winners.

Others to previously featuring in this select group include Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham), Conor Chaplin (Portsmouth) and James Justin (Luton Town).

Learn more about our Elite Player Development Programme here.

Congratulations Roy!