Troy Parrott is the name on the lips of many around Europe after his performance for the Republic of Ireland against Austria.

The 24-year-old's rise is not surprising to those who knew him as a youngster, as he was tipped to become one of the world's best strikers.

Back in his time as a Tottenham Hotspur youngster, Parrott was seen as a heir to Harry Kane, but things did not work out that way for him at the club.

He has since picked up the pieces and is now shining in the UEFA Champions League and La Liga for Real Betis, and is living up to initial expectations.

'Similar to Kane', 'It's Up to Him': What Tottenham Trio Said About Troy Parrott

Back in 2019, a teenage Troy Parrott was making his way through the ranks at Tottenham Hotspur, attracting the attention of then-coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Speaking about the young striker, the Argentinian tactician predicted that his future lay at the club and stressed on the need for time and opportunity to the youngster.

“It’s always important to keep the belief in the Academy, the possibility for them to have the opportunity to play. For me, Japhet and Troy have a future here, only they need time and space to show their quality. They were good but of course disappointed like all the team that we didn’t win.”

Club legend Ledley King told Football.London in the same year that Parrott's limits could only be set by the player, himself.

He praised the young striker for the work rate he displayed and his physical and mental maturity as a teenager.

"It's up to him [how good he can be]. He's in a great place where we have a manager almost wants young players to give him that problem, to come into the first team and that's not always the case elsewhere.

What we like about him is his work ethic. He's one of those players who rolls up his sleeves and puts in a shift for the team, regardless of how well he's playing. He's always putting in that work rate. Physically he's a big strong lad for his age. He's got a maturity about his game which is great to see at such a young age.

He's not fazed to be playing against one of the best teams in the world and one of the best defenders in the world in Bonucci (Juventus), so that was great to see."

Former teammate Christian Eriksen also shared his thoughts, likening the youngster to Harry Kane with some of his traits.

He also praised him for his attitude and application, as well as some of his technical qualities.

"If he’s going to beat Harry Kane [for a starting spot with Spurs] then it’s going to be tough. But, no, he’s done very well. He’s trained with us for a while now and he played a few games in the pre-season.

He’s a good player. I wouldn’t say it’s fair to say he’s like Harry Kane, he’s obviously not but he has similar [traits]. He’s good on the ball, good finishing and makes some good runs. He’s still young so he has a lot to learn but he’s a good lad."

Troy Parrott never managed to become a household name at Tottenham, as a lack of opportunities severely hampered him. He got his career back on track in the Netherlands with AZ Alkmaar, and joined Real Betis this summer.

Parrott Delivers Sensational Showing Against Austria

Parrott continued with his red-hot form for Republic of Ireland, having scored seven goals in five competitive appearances for his country.

He opened the scoring against Austria with a brilliant solo effort that earned him comparisons to Ronaldo, one of the best strikers in the world.

The 24-year-old took on the entire Austria backline all by himself, showing off great footwork and composure to slot home after his dribbles.

The striker added a second before half-time to put his side 2-0 up, slotting home from the penalty spot after Ryan Manning was fouled in the box.

Austria fought back in the second half, with Alexander Prass and Michael Gregoritsch scoring the goals that secured a point for them.