Coach hopeful more youngsters make the grade at Chelsea
Assistant Under-21 coach Andy Myers is hopeful Chelsea will be able to bring through more home-grown players in the coming years.
Despite significant investment in the club’s academy, few youngsters have managed to progress to the first team.
It is anticipated that the newly created Under-21 league will aid the development of young talent at Premier League clubs – many of which have been criticised for not bringing players through.
“We’re going to try and change the mould of that. Our remit is to try and bring boys up to the first team if possible,” said Myers.
“To be fair, it’s more difficult these days for youngsters at all clubs – not just here – to play in the first team.
“If you go to other clubs you’ll find that they’ve got some good youngsters just like we have, but it’s become rare for them to play in the first team too.”
Myers, from Hounslow, progressed through the ranks at Chelsea during his playing career and believes going out on loan can play an important part in helping a youngster make the grade.
A number of the Blues’ best prospects have spent time away from Stamford Bridge and others will follow suit this season.
Myers said: “It’s had benefits in the past and is often the way to go. It really depends on the player’s circumstances and age.
“It doesn’t hurt to go out on loan. It’d good to go and get that experience of playing in a league and in front of a crowd.”
See also:
Former Chelsea player given new coaching role
Chelsea youngster wants loan move
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