Tottenham Hotspur have produced plenty of talented youngsters recently, as have Southampton, whilst Arsenal have seriously struggled in that department.
Karren Brady
West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady offered high praise for Spurs and Southampton for how they continue to bring young stars through their ranks, when writing her regular column for the Sun, and drew attention to the fact that both clubs’ success in the youth department have put Arsenal’s production of talented youngsters to shame.
Arsene Wenger has had to endure heavy criticism over the last few years, for his failure to help some of the talented English youngsters within his squad reach their potential.
Added to that, there has been a serious shortage of academy gradates at the Emirates over the last five years – only Alex Iwobi can be considered as a genuine success story.
And Brady highlighted how Tottenham and Southampton have been streets ahead of the Gunners in recent seasons, as far as youth development is concerned, when writing her regular column for the Sun:
West Ham United Vice Chairman Karren Brady
“It’s a fact that many of the better national sides are structured around one club. Of the 16 players used (in Gareth Southgate’s squad), counting those with past and present connections, Spurs have four and Saints five. They have productive academies chiefly made up of English lads and while Southampton have had to sell several of their outstanding players, Tottenham are rich enough to hang on to theirs. A final thought, though: Very recently, Arsenal were in a similar position. Last night, no Gunner made it on to the pitch.”
And with the balance of power in north London already on the verge of a seismic shift, Brady’s comments are sure to resonate with Arsenal fans, who always prided themselves on their club bringing through some of the country’s brightest young talents.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
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