Signed as an Academy Scholar in July 2004, Chris Riley was a strong central defender, who could also play in either full back position or in midfield. A defender with pace and poise, he progressed through the youth and reserve teams, but could not break into the First team.
Emerged from Enfield Grammar School and captained them to a Middlesex Cup victory, going on to play for the Middlesex Schools county side - all the while training with Spurs since he was an Under-9 in 1999.
Played in defence for England at Under-16, Under-17 and Under-19 levels, but reached the reserves with Tottenham before being released. Chris always gave his all in his performances, with a willingness to progress, especially when deployed at centre-half, where he won headers despite not being the tallest player in that position.
His career saw him excel in the Under-17s and step up to the Under-19s at the age of just 15. However, he suffered a knee injury that kept him out of the Under-18 side for much of 2005-06. Riley could play anywhere across the back, but right full-back was his best position. Injury struck again in 2006-07 when he was part of the Reserve squad.
Failed to make the step up to the senior squad despite playing with some first teamers in pre-season friendlies, so moved on to play for Enfield Town, Interwood, had a trial with Burton Albion, then turned out for Ebbsfleet United and Horsham.. In 2008, Chris was playing with Jerez Industrial CF in Spain - the team Glenn Hoddle used for players at his Academy, before returning home to play for Caernarfon Town in Wales and then Bromley.
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