Terry Stephenson: a Papua New Guinean in England

When it comes to Papua New Guinean footballers playing in other continents people always think about the Komolong brothers – Felix, currently playing in the USA and Alwin, who last played in Germany third tier.

However there is a very young player from Papua New Guinea that is having a great opportunity in England: Terry Stephenson.

Stephenson was born in Lae, Papua New Guinea on 12 January 2002 but he moved to England very young. He started to play football for Billingham Town before joining Middlesbrough. The 17 years old left back is part of Boro U18 squad. He plays as left back but he can also play as right back and central midfielder.

Despite playing only four matches in 2019-20 U18 Premier League so far, Stephenson already had some great moments playing for the Smoggies. He made his debut for U23 team in 2018 against Port Vale with only 16 years old. Stephenson also had the opportunity to be U18 team captain this year against Derby County.

His biggest moment in his youth career happened in the U18 Premier League Cup semi-final against Derby County in the 2018/19 season when he scored a goal in the extra time to secure a place in the final against Manchester City.

He has never been called for Papua New Guinea youth squads but PNGFA should look at him because his experience at academy level in England is surely something that puts him one step ahead other players from his homeland.