THE LURE of Premier League giants Everton proved too good of an opportunity to turn down for Bassala Sambou after he opted for a move away from the Sky Blues after four years with the Academy.
The 18-year-old made a name for himself during his time with the Sky Blues Academy after scoring no fewer than 25 goals last season, mostly for the club’s under-18s.
Sambou went on to make his first team debut as a second half substitute against Northampton Town at the Ricoh Arena back in November last year.
City boss Tony Mowbray had wanted to the young striker to remain with the Sky Blues to continue his development and the City boss offered him more first team opportunities.
But Sambou had already caught the attention of a host of Championship and Premier League clubs and as soon as Everton came knocking he made the decicision to move away to Merseyside on a three-year deal.
“There were a lot of other teams interested in me but as soon as I heard Everton’s name mentioned, I knew this was the right place for me,” Sambou told Everton’s official website.
“I thought Everton was a really good place and somewhere where I could get an opportunity.
“I have massive respect (for Coventry) because they taught me a lot. Without them I wouldn’t be here at this fantastic club, so I have to thank them for everything they did for me.
“But I was blown away when I visited Finch Farm. I was really impressed when I saw it all. I remember seeing David [Unsworth] as well and he opened the door, welcomed me and gave me a massive hug!
“He’s been great with me every day since. He’s been giving me advice every session on how I can improve my game – he’s a really good coach and I’m happy to be able to work under him.”
Sambou was born in Hanover, Germany and came over to Coventry as a seven-year-old before joining the Sky Blues Academy at the age of 14.
His energetic displays and pace made him one of the hottest young prospects in the Football League and although Sambou has only made one first team appearances, he is determined to succeed at Goodison Park.
“I want to give everything I’ve got now and prove to people that I can be a big asset,” Sambou added.
“The boys have been absolutely fantastic with me from day one. They introduced themselves and they’ve been helping me get to know everyone and everything around the place.”
