AFC Portchester star bidding to earn Reading deal following trials with Bournemouth and Portsmouth
AFC Portchester prospect Patrik Hnath is hoping it’s third time lucky as he bids to make the move into the professional game.
The 17-year-old is currently on a two-week trial with Championship side Reading under-18s after unsuccessful attempts to earn a deal at both Bournemouth and Pompey.
It’s been a whirlwind few months for the forward who arrived in the UK from Germany last year to study at Fareham College.
Hnath, who has a German father and Ecuadorian mother, attended youth team trials with the Royals and quickly made the step up to the first team.
In his 10 appearances for the senior side, he has netted three times and a number of professional clubs have been keen to take a look.
Pompey had him for a few days training while Bournemouth cast an an eye other Hnath, inviting him for a trial.
Reading are the latest Football League team taking a look and the Royals boss Catlin believes the youngster has a ‘real chance’ to make it in the professional game.
‘Young Patrik is currently on a two-week trial at Reading,’ said the Portchester boss.
‘He’s already been at Bournemouth and he’s only 17.
‘Patrik is a real bright prospect, Pompey have had him in training with them as well.
‘We’ve had a lot of interest from league clubs in him and Reading are really keen on him.
‘He came over here and was invited to the youth team trials with us.
‘He’s now been in the first team since the beginning of November.
‘Patrick has got a real chance, he’s got all you need.
‘I think he’s got the physique and if he can get with a pro club at that age, he’ll only get better.
‘It’s good for our club as well because it proves our youth set up works bringing players through the ages.’
Portchester have had a player leave them to join Reading previously.
Midfielder Andy Rinomhota left the Royals for the Championship outfit at the age of 18.
He was voted Reading’s player of the season last term.
Now Catlin hopes Hnath can follow in his footsteps and make it as a professional.
‘We’ve got links with Reading with Andy Rinomhota,’ added the Royals boss.
‘He went to Reading when he was 18.
‘But Patrik is still only 17 and not 18 until September.
‘He would still be a first year scholar.
‘Andy is a first team player at Reading now.
‘But because there is the link there, they still watch and keep an eye on some of our games.’