Our Young Gun series returns for 2024/25 as we get to know the academy youngsters kicking off their careers at Sobha Realty Training Centre.
Goalkeeper Khari Ranson spoke to us for the Brighton matchday programme, and here's what he had to say about his sporty family, his position on the pitch and being noticed by Arsenal.
I grew up in East London and began playing football at a very young age, around three or four years old. Although my school didn’t have a football team, I played during lunchtimes in the intense Year 5 versus Year 6 games.
My mum is from Ghana and my dad is from Nigeria, which leads to a lot of friendly debate about which jollof rice is better! Personally I side with Nigerian jollof. I have two younger siblings: a brother and a sister. My sister is into athletics, my dad runs his own five-a-side team, and my mum plays netball, so sports run in the family.
Initially, I played in midfield as a holding player and at centre-back before being moved to goalkeeper because our team needed one. I fell in love with the position and enjoyed diving around – essential for a keeper.
"Saving two penalties on my England debut against Turkey was a standout moment!"
In terms of role models, I looked up to Manuel Neuer for revolutionising goalkeeping with his ability to play out from the back and to Jason Steele from Brighton for his exceptional distribution.
My first team was HD All Stars, and at the same time, I trained at Focus Football. Both were renowned for their coaching, and many talented players emerged from there. That’s how Charlton first noticed me. Soon after, Chelsea showed interest, followed by Arsenal. I was offered trials at all three clubs, but as an Arsenal fan I chose to join them.
Hale End was an incredible experience. One of the main highlights was reaching the national final at Under-14s, even though we lost on penalties. That defeat motivated me to improve. I was also fortunate to travel to Dubai and Brazil for football tours, both of which were amazing experiences shared with close friends.
Receiving the scholarship offer was a big milestone for me. I got the news in March last year and was thrilled. While I’ve known for a while, the real work begins now. I’m excited to start on this full-time football journey and ready to embrace the challenges ahead. My family was very proud when I shared the news, and their support motivates me.
A standout moment in my career was saving two penalties on my England debut against Turkey. I was determined not to lose that shootout, especially after the Under-14 finals loss on penalties.
I’ve had the opportunity to play for both the Under-18s and 21s, which are big steps up from under-16 level. My Under-21s debut against Enfield Town was particularly memorable due to the different experience of having supporters behind me and the unique challenges of the pitch. I enjoyed it and look forward to more of these experiences this season.
On game day, my ritual involves walking onto the pitch with my left foot, touching the crossbar with both hands, and touching both posts. I then walk across the six-yard box in the direction of the crowd, which helps me get ready for the game."
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