Reds respond as Academy season is curtailed

'The Academy recognises the decision to bring the Premier League 2 and Under-18 Premier League seasons to an end due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, which was announced today. 

 

'Both the Under-23s and Under-18s sides were having successful seasons, fighting for promotion from Premier League 2 Division Two and reaching the FA Youth Cup semi-final respectively. However, the decision, which is independent of any discussions regarding the resumption of the 2019/20 campaign for first-team football, has been taken by the Premier League to give staff and players at the academies clarity at this challenging time.

 

'While the FA Youth Cup has not been ended at this point, the club will continue to engage with the relevant authorities on what this decision means for the final placings in the competitions in which the Academy teams are involved.'

Nick Cox, Head of Academy, stated: "I am immensely proud of the boys’ achievements throughout the season and I have been particularly pleased with how well they have coped during this challenging time. Our young players have continued to engage with their football and education programmes at home and that will stand them in great stead when it is safe to return to training.

 

“I’d also like to take the opportunity, on behalf of everyone across the Academy, to express our huge appreciation for the efforts of NHS staff, volunteers and key workers who continue to put themselves at risk to keep everybody safe in such difficult circumstances.

 

“We will continue to support our young players’ football development and mental wellbeing during this time and look forward to welcoming them back to full-time training when this is possible.”