Academy round-up for the opening months of the 2023/24 campaign.
It has been a busy return for the academy for the 2023/24 campaign, with a new Academy manager appointed, several youth players handed their senior professional debuts for the first team and international recognition throughout the set-up.
New Academy Manager
With Kieran Scarff moving into the assistant manager role, the football club recruited for a new Academy manager during the summer with Dan Robinson departing Burton Albion to take up the position at the idverde Training Ground.
Robinson, who spent seven years at the Brewers in the same role, as well as helping first team manager Dino Maamria, officially started in the role earlier this month and is enjoying every minute of getting to know the players and staff.
“It has been excellent to come in and meet everybody, they have been extremely welcoming and it is very clear that it’s all aligned, from the youngest age group through to the first team. The manager and senior club staff are linking in with the academy, including the foundation, and I have found it very welcoming since I have walked through the door.
“My role is very much in supporting the staff and players and leading them, so having an idea of what everybody's roles are, how they all connect, working with the players and understanding how I can support them on their journey.
Senior Debuts
Back in August, three of our under 21s and under 18s made their senior professional debut in the Carabao Cup victory over Portsmouth at Fratton Park. Defender James Dornelly started and played 79 minutes before being substituted, while Harley Mills and Harry Titchmarsh both came off the bench in the final 10 minutes.
Donay O’Brien-Brady, Jake West, Gabe Overton and Joe Toynton were unused substitutes alongside three first-year scholars, including George Holley, Noah Freeman and Max Beech.
Loan Update
Forward Tyler Winters has joined Northern Premier League Division One Midlands side Spalding United on a one-month work experience loan.
Winters featured in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Bedworth United, coming on as a substitute in the second half.
International Call-Ups
Defender Janos Bodnar is heading out on international duty with Hungary U19s for a pre-camp before the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Qualification Round fixtures. They face three fixtures, starting with Lativa before facing Gibraltar and ending with Norway.
FA Talent ID Camp
On Sunday 24th of September, two of our under 14s squad members (Luca Christoudias & Leon Mukumbira) attended a regional talent ID camp for players eligible to play for England U15s.
They both really enjoyed the experience and they are now waiting to hear if they will be recalled for another camp.
Media Day
Earlier this month, our academy sides had headshots and team photos taken at the Weston Home Stadium ahead of the new campaign. It would have been a good experience for all players involved and we are looking forward to the photos to be published soon.
Trip to Manchester United
On Saturday 16th September, the Foundation Phase travelled three hours north to face Manchester United. There was a notable of strong player performances on what was a good day out for the players and staff.
Staff Recognition
We are delighted to announce that Aaron Rawlings has been offered the under 10s assistant role after his time with the pre-academy.
Congratulations, Aaron!