Ones to watch: Future A-League players smashing it in the NPL Queensland - Midfielders Edition

With the trend of NPL players making the transition to the A-League on the rise, here is three second-tier midfielders A-League agents should be keeping an eye on.

Steve Whyte

Club: Olympic FC

With a season in the States under his belt, Steve Whyte returns to Australia with a point to prove. Part of the Central Coast Mariners Academy setup for 6-years, he went on to skipper their youth team before linking up with Gosford great John Hutchinson at Seattle Sounders 2 in 2017.

Now under the guidance of former youth mentor Ben Cahn, Whyte has hit his stride since signing for Olympic in 2018. The 22-year old's energy in midfield, complemented by a killer passing range and set-piece pedigree means he's fast becoming one of the most coveted players in the National Premier Leagues.

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Mitchell Hore

Club: Lions FC

Whether he's playing in a midweek Mackay clash against Magpies Crusaders, or a packed-out Suncorp Stadium chorusing "You'll Never Walk Alone", Mitch Hore's quality always comes to the fore. A product of the Brisbane Roar youth system, 23-year old Hore brings a touch of class to a Championship-winning Lions side.

The Nambour local combines technique and vision with a vigorous work ethic that sees him look head and shoulders above the NPL. The tireless midfielder has chimed in with 3 goals in just 4 games this season, helping his side climb up the table as they look to go back-to-back.

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Jesse Rigby

Club: Brisbane City

Rockhampton-born Rigby is in his 5th season of NPL Queensland football. What's more impressive, the 21-year old has been captain for 4 of them. Joining Western Pride as a 17-year old, he skippered the Ipswich outfit through their most successful period which included a Championship and consecutive 3rd-place finishes.

Making the switch to Spencer Park for the 2019 season, the industrious midfielder couples passing intelligence with his natural leadership qualities as he orchestrates City's centre. Having previously been selected for the PS4 Player Pathway Award and the NPL Queensland U23 All-Stars, the deep-lying playmaker is yearning for his chance at the top.