Ajay Matthews

Ajay Matthews (born 11 June 2006) is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for club Middlesbrough.

Early life
Ajay is of Indian descent through his mother. 

Career
Matthews joined the academy on hometown club Middlesbrough at under-9s level having been spotted playing for local side Marton Juniors. Having progressed through the academy system, he signed a first professional two-year contract in June 2023 following an impressive first season as a scholar.

Ahead of the 2023–24 season, Matthews featured for the first-team in pre-season friendlies, notably scoring against Hartlepool United. On 22 April 2024, Matthews made his first-team senior debut for the club, coming on as a substitute in a 4–3 home defeat to Leeds United. The debut came amidst rumours linking him to a number of top European clubs for the upcoming summer transfer window.

International career
Matthews represented the England U17 team at the 2022 Nordic Cup.

In May 2024, Matthews was called up for the England U18s and made his debut which he had scored the final goal during a 4-2 win over Northern Ireland and at St. George's Park.