ChefMan21
Well-Known Member
Still this. Especially after tonight.I don't think booting our current crop of youngsters to the kerb is the way to go. For a few reasons:
- They are young and need time to reach their potential. It may not be on your time schedule but let's get real here - we're not Man City, Real et al who can just buy the ready made product year in year out and take financial losses against failures with barely a whimper. We don't have the finances to do that. Give them time - manage it smartly by loaning them out - to reach their potential. If they've plateaued for 18 months or so despite all efforts, sell them.
- They've played together - a lot. That to me says we've got our hands on a group of mates who'll fight for each other and fight for the club...
- ...which also means we're building a club culture. Club culture is important, as it speaks to who we are in comparison to other teams. Like the fact I'm not sure we want to be seen by youth prospects as an impatient club. There's a competitive and financial advantage in creating a good culture.
- They add to squad depth, even if it's not in the first XI.
- They also help with our homegrown quota. English players are overpriced, somewhat, which has a carry over effect on the rest of our transfer dealings.