As the first Tamil to step onto a professional football field in England, Yoganathan’s journey from a small village in North Wales to the professional ranks is both inspiring and significant….reports Asian Lite News
At just 18 years old, Vimal Yoganathan has already created an extraordinary identity for himself in English football, becoming a pioneering figure for British Asians and a beacon of hope for aspiring Tamil athletes.
As the first Tamil to step onto a professional football field in England, Yoganathan’s journey from a small village in North Wales to the professional ranks is both inspiring and significant. Born in Trelawnyd, Flintshire, Vimal Yoganathan’s football journey began at a young age.
From playing indoor football at Holywell Leisure Centre as a four-year-old to showcasing his skills at academies like Prestatyn Town juniors and Liverpool, Yoganathan has demonstrated an impressive progression in his career. Accordingly, his recent signing of a two-and-a-half-year contract with Barnsley FC marks a historic milestone, making him the first Tamil professional footballer in English football history.
Having recently scored his first senior goals, Yoganathan’s early career saw him evolve from a winger and striker into a box-to-box midfielder, a transition that highlights his versatility and growth as a player.
His ability to adapt and excel in different roles is a testament to his resilience and dedication. Despite facing setbacks, such as his release from Liverpool’s academy, Yoganathan’s work ethic and mental strength have helped him overcome these challenges and continue to rise through the ranks.
Furthermore, Barnsley’s interim director of football, Bobby Hassel, has also praised Yoganathan for his contributions during his time with the club’s 18 and 21 squads. Hassel described Yoganathan as a star performer known for his aggressive style of play and great attitude. Yoganathan’s commitment to continuous learning and development has been a key factor in his success.
Drawing inspiration from football icons such as Frenkie de Jong, Thiago, and Fabinho, Yoganathan is committed to refining his game and incorporating diverse elements into his playing style.
His dedication to improvement and technical prowess have not gone unnoticed by Barnsley fans, who have welcomed him with open arms and offered enthusiastic support. Additionally, Yoganathan’s connection to the Tamil community has also been a source of pride. Growing up in Northern Wales, where Tamil families were scarce, he maintained ties with his heritage through visits to the Midlands and participation in Tamil community events.
Football has also played a crucial role in keeping him connected with his cultural roots, and he still remembers the Tamil tournaments he participated in during his youth. These events, which take place across the UK and Europe, have been instrumental in fostering a sense of community and competition among Tamil players.
The impact of Yoganathan’s success extends beyond his own achievements. As a trailblazer for South Asian inclusion in football, he hopes to inspire younger Tamil players to pursue their dreams. His recent participation in the South Asian Pathway event, organized by PFA player inclusion executive Riz Rehman, underscores his commitment to supporting and promoting South Asian talent in football.
Looking ahead, Yoganathan is focused on building upon his momentum with Barnsley FC. With seven appearances across the EFL Cup and FA Cup, he has yet to make his league debut, having been an unused substitute at Shrewsbury earlier this year. Nevertheless, his ambition remains unwavering.
Yoganathan advises aspiring footballers, particularly those from South Asian backgrounds, to stand out, go the extra mile, and remain resilient through tough times.
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