Naj Razi

Name:

Najemedine Razi

Team:

Under 19s

Age:

16

What is the origin of your surname?

It’s Algerian

Where were you born?

I was born in Ireland. My dad and my mam were born in Algeria.

Have you been to Algeria yourself?

I go over mostly every summer.

When did you join Shamrock Rovers?

I joined when I was seven. I started off training with the Academy in the Spawell.

Were any of the other lads that are on your team now also part of that Academy at the time you joined?

No, there’s no one here now that were there then.

Who were the coaches there at that time?

The only ones I can remember are Shane Robinson and Stephen Bradley who were both there then. They are the only people who were there that are still here.

Who have been your coaches in the years you have come through the SRFC Academy?

Stewart McSweeney, then Tony O’Dowd, Aidan Price and Steven Gray when I with the National League Under 13s, then Jay Shields and Tony Cousins (U17s) and Aidan Price (U19s) last year.

At what age groups have you played in the National League?

Under 13s, Under 15s, Under 17s and Under 19s.

Were you mainly Under 17s last year?

I played a couple of times with the Under 19s last year also. I went up to them during the summer and I finished the season off with them. I also played the two games in the (UEFA) Youths Champions League.

Do you think it will be more difficult playing at Under 19 level this year than it was at Under 17s?

Yes, it’s just a bit more physical but I have to ability to play there.

What’s your normal position?

I can play in the 10 position, striker or either right or left wing.

How would you describe yourself as a footballer?

A smart and a quick player. I have good vision and I am good on the ball.

You have also played for the Republic of Ireland. At what age groups have you played?

I have played at Under 16 and Under 17 level.

What countries have you played against abroad?

I have played abroad against Serbia, Spain, Holland, Sweden, Norway and some other countries.

What has it been like for you having been involved with the Ireland teams?

It has been a very good experience. You get to meet up with new players in your squad and a few players who have come in from England, you get to meet loads of other players.

Have you had any approaches from Algeria?

They have sent some text messages enquiring about me.

As you mentioned, you went with the SRFC U19s to Holland last year to play against Alkmaar in the Youths Champions League. What was that experience like for you?

It was a very good experience. It was real tough playing against a top team in Holland. They play more quickly so you can’t take loads of touches, you just have to move the ball very quick.

Have you been training with the first team this year?

Yes, I have been training with them since the start of the season. I am on and off with them and I have played in some of the friendlies.

You are part of the present Transition Year group at Shamrock Rovers; how is that going for you?

It’s going very well for me and I like it.