Charles Banya was another member of the Jubilee Primary School ‘Friday Football Club’ and fledgling St. Matthew’s Project. From his days in the Jubilee playground it was clear that Charles was an outstanding footballing talent. It was while playing for St. Matthew’s in the ‘All Nations 6-A-Side Tournament’ at Fulham F.C’s training ground, in May 2005, that Charles came to the attention of the club’s chief scout, along with Andre Anderson, another Jubilee Friday Footballer. Both were signed straight to the Fulham Academy but, sadly, Andre was released after one year, still managing to score twice against Norwich City on his last game for Fulham.

Since then Charles has risen up the ranks to the U18s squad in the hope of one day representing the First Team. We also hope he will be the first SMP player to grace a Premier League pitch. Charles’ talent is matched by his off-field behaviour, a grounded and well-mannered young man with a great sense of discipline – a shining example to any SMP member and aspiring footballer. We wish him all the very best for the future.