Albion teen Todd Miller was playfully dubbed Cucumiller after an eye-catching display for the under-21s.

The former Colchester United winger scored one goal and made another in a highly commendable 2-2 draw at League Two leaders Forest Green in the Papa John’s Trophy.

Like first team wing-back Marc Cucurella, Miller stands out initially for his extravagant hair.

 

 

But he was also a record-breaker at Colchester and was among those to take his chance at the New Lawn this week as Andrew Crofts sent out a side missing a handful of regulars.

Miller, who turned 19 this month, was still at school when he made his League Two debut in March, 2019.

He went on as sub at Exeter City at the age of 16 years and 166 days and had a goal ruled out for offside.

Miller was already being coveted by others at that stage.

Colchester boss John McGreal said: “The fact he has played for the under-23s at 15 or 16 speaks volumes about how well he's been doing and he's getting himself a big reputation at the club - and from further afield, too.

"I really like what I see from him. He can play both sides, is direct when he gets the ball and his decision making is excellent for his age.

"I think young Todd has got a fantastic future ahead of him."

Speaking about his debut, McGreal said: "You could see that he was involved straight away there and he has tons and tons of pace.

"He tends to get himself into lovely little positions.

"He was unfortunate for his little offside, when he was on the back end of the full-back.”

Miller joined Albion’s academy the following summer.

He started out with Dagenham and Redbridge, attending their academy until under-14 level.

Albion revert to the under-23s on Saturday when they play Crystal Palace in Premier League 2 at the Lancing training complex (5pm).

A small number of tickets are available via the club website.