OT: Premier Under 21 League

[thehornets]

Anyone else interested in this? It is a fascinating shake up encouraging younger players to get more quality and competitive football to hopefully make them better players bridging the gap between youth setup and first team. Having said that, each team is allowed to field three over-age outfield players and over-age keeper. The Daily Mail explains it quite well -

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2183247/Barclays-Premier-League-Under-21-competiti...

I knwo Watford qualified as one of the six non-Premier sides due to their top rated academy status.

What is nice is that many of the games will be played at main stadiums around the country. Monday Sep 03rd has Watford facing Manchester United at Vicarage Road with a 7pm kickoff.

Here's the fixtures -

http://www.premierleague.com/content/dam/premierleague/site-content/News/publications/bulletins/barc...

[loobyloo6]

Cheers for that Nigel.

[obree]

Thanks Nigel

[thehornets]

I guess that confirms the fears of many supporters. This U21 league was a wonderful opportunity for home grown youngsters. It is mandatory for teams with a Category 1 or 2 academy status to compete. Watford have informed the league they will be operating a lower standard category 3 academy from now on so will not be taking part! They have had one of the best academies in the country for years - why lose that status? This after taking 6 (at present) loan players from our new owner's other two clubs!