In a World Cup year, it takes a special player to stand out from the crowd - particularly when they're not even part of their county's senior team.
Phil Foden, Rhian Brewster and Dominic Calvert-Lewin might be among those being tipped for the top, but it is 17-year-old Ryan Sessegnon whose name continues to crop up when pundits select their next big thing in the English game.
Sessegnon was the household name in England’s victorious Under-19 side as they won the European Championships in 2017, after his exploits with Fulham in the previous campaign. His development has continued to skyrocket this time around, but with the vultures now circling ahead of the summer transfer window, his next move is likely to be the most important of his career.
Originally seen as a forward-thinking, modern left-back, Sessegnon has found his true calling this season when playing either on the left-hand side of midfield or even, in more recent weeks, as part of front three.
Only four players – all central strikers – have scored more than his 14 goals in the Championship this season. That tally includes his first senior hat-trick and, with the Premier League surely on the horizon, his seamless transition into an attacking threat may well have his potential suitors thinking again about how he fits in.
For over a year Tottenham have been leading the race for Sessegnon’s signature. With Danny Rose linked with an exit from north London, Sessegnon was seen as his likeliest successor, particularly if Mauricio Pochettino returns to a formation that utilises three central defenders and wing-backs.
If not Tottenham, then Manchester United may yet be ready to swoop. Jose Mourinho has a tendency to prioritise more established signings over the potential of youngsters, but Sessegnon’s talent is such that the habit of a lifetime is about to be changed.
Either way, if Sessegnon is to reach his full potential then it is key he both earns opportunities and is played in his best position. It is easy to see a young player with the No.3 on his back and see him as a left-back only, but with a conversion rate of 41 per cent and a shot accuracy of 56% the teenager must be played further forward, with wing-back the furthest back he should ever have to retreat.
Of those linked with him, that would suggest Tottenham is far likelier destination.
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Though Spurs have signed Lucas Moura and are again being linked with Wilfried Zaha, Pochettino is perhaps the Premier League manager who gives most chances to young players.
Factor in Sessegnon being able to remain in London, and a move to the new White Hart Lane makes plenty of sense.
What we do know is Sessegnon will be a Premier League footballer next season, and, under the right supervision, he could quickly become one of the very best.