Young Star Justifies Coach’s Faith with Stellar Performances in Career-Best Season

Eli Adams is truly finding his rhythm with the Newcastle Jets as he reaps the rewards of consistent first-team action. The latest insights into the promising forward highlight his impressive statistics.

“Players develop when they get game time,” Rob Stanton remarked at the season’s outset.

This statement holds validity, and the figures substantiate that claim.

Stanton made these comments following a stunning performance from Adams, whose two goals propelled the Jets to a 2-1 victory over the Macarthur Bulls in Round 2 back in October.

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Adams relocated to McDonald Jones Stadium at the beginning of the 2023-24 season, having netted just one goal in a mere 196 minutes of A-League action over his first two seasons.

At 23, Adams has been a revelation, making the most of Stanton’s trust during this banner campaign.

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Adams has achieved a personal best this season, scoring seven goals in 19 appearances and accumulating 1,558 minutes on the pitch. He currently shares the title of Newcastle’s top scorer with Lachie Rose.

“When you observe Eli, you can see the talent shining through,” Stanton noted earlier in the season.

“I recognised his potential, but during his time at Victory, he faced stiff competition from some exceptional players. Those players often have that extra edge in other aspects of their game. While I’ve highlighted the other areas, I truly believe that if he can harness his talent, he’ll truly shine.”

“He showcased excellent effort defending from the front, demonstrating aggression and actively engaging in challenges. While defence isn’t typically part of his repertoire, I emphasised that it lays the groundwork for the brilliance he possesses, but hard work is essential.”

“I don’t think he’s completed a full 90 minutes recently. It’s quite difficult to perform consistently if you’re not regularly playing. I have faith in him and have provided him the chance. I’m not surprised by his performance because I notice those qualities in training.”

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Stanton has successfully unlocked Adams’ potential within the Hunter region.

Adams is a player who is thriving, rising to new heights with the Jets.

The young talent has dramatically surpassed his expected goals (xg) of 3.28 this season and is nearing the top of the Golden Boot race, finding the net every 222 minutes.

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“The growth in a player’s career from consistent match exposure is nearly unmatched, and it’s the most effective way to learn. Training can prepare you, but nothing compares to the experience gained in competitive matches,” Adams shared with aleagues.com.au earlier this season.

“Though I’ve been in the league for a few seasons, I haven’t had the chance to fully express myself and play regularly, where I become a consistent figure in the starting XI.”

Having trialled at the renowned Bayern Munich, he’s proven to be a player poised for memorable moments, especially highlighted by his sensational goal against Auckland FC – deemed a “Premier League” moment by his coach.

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Adams poses a significant threat to defenders with his ball control and movement. His technical skill further enhances his creative capabilities.

Among forwards aged 23 and under, he leads with 57 passes into the box (including crosses) and ranks second in opposition box take-ons with 10.

Additionally, he ranks fourth in total goals scored, trailing behind Western United’s standout Noah Botic, Adelaide United’s emerging talent Archie Goodwin, and Western Sydney Wanderers’ Nicolas Milanovic. He is also amongst the top four for total carry distance (2,126), carry progress (1,129.5), total carries (192), carry directness (78.5), chances created from open play (22), and big chances created (six).

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In terms of forwards across all age groups this season, Adams also ranks within the top 10 in areas such as opposition box take-ons, completed dribbles, carry directness, and total carry progress.

“At times, he just needs a little nudge to realise his own potential,” Stanton recently commented. “I think people sometimes misinterpret his personality or body language, and that possibly explains why he hasn’t played more.”

“What matters to me is his potential. It’s all about finding ways to consistently access that potential. What levers do I need to pull? How do I encourage it? And the training design has to reflect that approach.”