Hondermarck one to watch as potential shines through in local friendly fixtures
City midfielder William Hondermarck in action for the Canaries U18 side that face Dereham Town in a friendly at Aldiss Park. Picture: Tony Thrussel - Credit: Tony Thrussell
William Hondermarck joined Norwich City’s development squad after a host of impressive performances for Irish First Division side Drogheda United.
The 18-year old established himself in the Drogheda first team at the beginning of last season where he was involved in a major cup upset against Shamrock Rovers in only his second senior appearance.
His form in Ireland led to the Canaries offering him a trial at Colney. He was subsequently signed after impressing in cameos for the youth sides.
Hondermarck, who was born in France but lived in Ireland since early childhood, has been a regular in David Wright's U23 side this season, playing in five matches to date.
An uncompromising midfielder, his presence is a significant part of his game.
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In possession, he is keen to burst through the thirds with the ball, using his physicality as a shield from opponents. The directness of these runs make him an outlet to relieve pressure for City, but often his decision making is questionable at the end of a surge forward.
In games against Dereham Town and Gorleston, being competent at the technical aspects of the game became secondary with a need to engage in the arm wrestle both outfits presented proving crucial in City gaining a foothold in the game.
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At Aldiss Park, Hondermarck was given a licence to play, with a less intense press from the Magpies allowing the midfielder to display his technical ability.
Emerald Park proved a less forgiving playground, with his physical abilities tested throughout by a street wise non-league side who refused to allow City the same degree of time when they held possession.
Partnered by Reece McAlear, he struggled to contend with the energy of the game and the overload of green shirts in a central area.
Displaying plenty of endeavour, he battled his way back into proceedings, albeit having to simplify his game to play shorter passes rather than being more experimental on the ball.
He was replaced midway through the second half without possessing the same influence that saw him shine at Aldiss Park.
There is still plenty of potential for the coaching team at Colney to harvest from a technical perspective. He's predominantly one-footed and also requires some positional work to develop him further.
Considering the coaches ability to improve young talent drastically, Hondermarck is one to file in the 'one to watch' category.
