Professionalism of new father Jamie Young hailed by Western United coach John Aloisi

Western United goalkeeper Jamie Young is successfully juggling his family and football commitments after this week becoming a father for the first time.

The safe hands of Jamie Young have been crucial for Western United this season. Picture: Scott Gardiner/Getty Images

Western United coach John Aloisi has praised in-form goalkeeper and new father Jamie Young for his professionalism while in Tasmania in the days leading up to the birth of his daughter Amelia.

Young is “so excited” following this week’s arrival of Amelia and is set to again play a key role in United’s A-League clash with Newcastle in Ballarat on Saturday,

The veteran gloveman has been superb for United since joining the club in the off-season from Brisbane Roar, who sorely miss the presence of the former A-League keeper of the year between the posts.

He remained committed to the United cause last week – including going to Launceston for the club’s 2-0 weekend win over Perth Glory – despite the impending birth of his first child.

“Three games in a week, (and) we had to travel to Tasmania, the stresses of not knowing whether your partner is going to go into labour … he didn’t show (that) at all,” Aloisi said.

“He just focused on his game and then made sure that he performed well, which he has been, and now he can enjoy being a father.

“He’s really good. He’s, he’s up and about, (and) he’s so excited, which is normal when you have a child.

“He’s had plenty of rest. He’s staying in a hotel, so he’s getting looked after like a king – he’s ready (to play).”

Congratulations to Jamie Young and his partner Abbey on the safe arrival of their daughter Amelia 👶💚🖤 pic.twitter.com/VRAqfYifAp

— Western United FC (@wufcofficial) March 1, 2022

Young’s performances, which have included eight clean sheets, have been crucial in United’s push for the A-League title.

Aloisi’s men are sitting in second spot on the ladder, only trailing leaders Melbourne City on goal difference. United also has two games in hand on City.

“I know it sounds like a cliche that you just take it one game at a time, but you have to really only focus on your next game because if you look too far ahead … it starts to get away from you,” Aloisi said.

“We know there’s plenty of football to be played. We’re happy with the way it’s going of course, we’re happy in the position we’re in, and we know that we want to keep on building and keep on improving and keep on picking up wins – that’s the most important thing.

“Come round 25, then we’ll have a look and see where we’re at, but at the moment, we’re just focused on a very difficult game against Newcastle. That’s all the players have been talking about.

“We know it’s going to be a tough test for us.”