FA launch new Under-21 Cup Competition

Michael Kenrick , 8 September, 0comments | Jump to most recent

The FA will launch its new Under-21 cup competition on Monday, declaring it to be another positive step forward in the development of younger players. 51 clubs will contest the new competition in the wake of concerns over a lack of young English footballers reaching their potential.

The draw for the first two Qualifying Rounds on Monday features four Premier League clubs. All matches have to be played in proper stadiums. Premier League director of youth Ged Roddy feels this is a significant development.

"The introduction of an Under-21 cup creates another competitive opportunity for players up and down the country, which can enhance and support what we're doing with the Barclays Under-21 Premier League," said Roddy.

"Players who come through the academy system have been playing on training grounds since they were nine in some cases," he said.

"One of the characteristics of that transition from the academy player to the professional player is the stadium experience, dealing with games that they need to win and dealing with, on occasions, a hostile environment that is created by a big crowd, and sometimes a very supportive environment."

Everton, being a Category One Academy do not enter the competition until the Round of 32. Some clubs (Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham) have opted not to participate.

Quotes or other material sourced from The Indpendent

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