Cardiff City manager Omer Riza has emphasized that few coaches would be willing to take a risk on Leicester City loanee Will Alves, but he decided to do so because he is familiar with the young player’s character.
The 19-year-old winger, who joined the Championship side on loan for the rest of the season from Ruud van Nistelrooy’s squad, has only made one Premier League appearance for the Foxes this campaign.
Alves, who previously collaborated with Riza during his time in the England youth setup, reunited with the Cardiff boss upon joining the Bluebirds.
Riza acknowledged that his decision to sign Alves might be viewed as a gamble, as he believes most managers would hesitate to bring in a relatively inexperienced player given Cardiff’s current situation. However, he stressed that his team requires fast, dynamic players like the Foxes’ loanee who can unsettle opponents.
The Cardiff boss is confident that Alves will make a significant impact for the Bluebirds, citing his deep understanding of the player’s personality.
“We need players with frightening pace who can scare the opposition,” Riza stated during a press conference.
“Will can do that.
“He needs to be gradually integrated; he hasn’t played much senior football, and perhaps not many managers would have taken a chance on someone with his profile at this stage.
“But I’ve worked with him before and know what he’s capable of and the kind of character he is.
“It’s rewarding to give people opportunities and hope they repay you with energy, intensity, and respect.
“I’m confident he will do that and be very impactful. He’s an exciting young player who the fans will really enjoy,” he added.
Alves, who has Portuguese roots, has represented England at the Under-17, Under-18, and Under-20 levels.
