Ajean-Ray Greaves
Ajean-Ray Greaves is a quick, hard-working, and technically gifted defender who joined Crystal Palace at Under-15 level after impressing at a showcase event while playing for grassroots side Junior Elite.
Ajean-RayGreaves
Def
Date of Birth
28.04.0928 April 2009
Country
GBEnglandJoined Team
30.08.2630 August 2026
A naturally versatile player, Greaves is comfortable operating anywhere across the back line, whether at left-back, right-back, wing-back or, when required, in central defence. His adaptability, athleticism and energy allow him to thrive in a variety of tactical setups.
His standout attributes include explosive pace, a relentless work rate and excellent delivery from wide areas, qualities that make him a threat going forward while remaining dependable defensively.
Growing up, Greaves looked up to Chelsea and England international Reece James, admiring his blend of defensive solidity and attacking quality. More recently, he has drawn inspiration from Liverpool full-back Jeremie Frimpong.
The 2024/25 campaign proved to be his most productive season to date. Despite missing five months through injury, he still registered 10 assists and added a goal of his own.
One of the standout moments of his Palace journey came during the 2024 MIC Tournament in Barcelona, an experience he describes as a career highlight. His favourite Palace goal remains a strike against Oxford United at Under-15 level, a moment that continues to motivate him.
Greaves signed his scholarship ahead of the 2025/26 season and went on to make 17 appearances, registering two assists.
Although injury disrupted the early part of the campaign, he finished strongly, setting up both goals in a 3-2 Under-18 Premier League South victory over Arsenal before producing a Player of the Match display against the same opponents on the final day of the season. Operating from right wing-back, he helped the Young Eagles secure a 2-2 draw.
That strong finish has carried into 2026/27, with Javier Alonso handing Greaves the responsibility of captaining the Under-18s. He marked his first game as skipper in style, scoring twice on the opening day to help the Young Eagles secure a statement 3-1 victory over West Ham United.
Since then, Greaves has added two assists for the U18s and also stepped up to make his competitive Under-21 debut, featuring in the 2-1 opening win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Premier League International Cup.