Academy Football
Former Premier League prospect on the real horrors of youth football

Former Premier League prospect on the real horrors of youth football

“The bottom line is, players have been killing themselves” James* was a hot prospect. When he was nine years old, a number of Premier League clubs approached his family, expressing interest in signing him to their academies. He was offered the opportunities that millions of other boys can only dream of. After considering every offer, […]

5 years ago

Cast Adrift: How football is failing released academy players

Cast Adrift: How football is failing released academy players

“Two phone calls in seven months. That’s what my son meant to a Premier League club…” Danny didn’t wait around. Within days of being told he would be released at the end of his contract, he left, stuffing his belongings into the back of his car one lunchtime and driving the 200-mile journey home. “It […]

5 years ago