I think the idea that there is no place for youth at the top level because of the money is rubbish to be honest. In fact i think it's almost vital and possibly part of the reason English teams have been struggling in Europe recently. People talk about the passion in English football, almost dismissively as though it's valued over technique and ability to our detriment. But i see more passion in European teams when they step on the pitch than i do for most of the top English sides.
Bayern: Muller, Lahm, Alaba, Kimmich, Hummels
Real Madrid: Carvajal, Ramos, Nacho, Vasquez, Asensio, Morata
Barca: Messi, Iniesta, Pique, Alba, Roberto, Busquets, Rafinha
Juventus: Chiellini, Marchisio, Buffon, Bonnuci, Rugani, De Ceglie
All from their academies or at least signed at a relatively young age and have developed that connection with the club. You can argue the finer points with some of those players and admittedly quite a few have left and come back, but the general point is i think there's a recognition at even the biggest, most successful and richest clubs that having players who identify with the club, the fans and the area is beneficial on the pitch.
At the very top level, football is a game of extremely fine margins. If playing for your local club gives an extra few percent, gives you the slightest edge, then it can make the difference between winning and losing.
We've not been good at it in recent seasons, although there are mitigating factors i think it's the stark truth that we should have done better with our youth players.
