If you're not going to Burnley - the Academy are at Home

[davieG]

City youngsters start another important season

Saturday, August 21, 2010, 07:30

Leicester City Under-18s start the defence of their Academy Premier League Group B title against Crewe at Belvoir Drive today (11.30).

Pre-season preparations have included mending some broken hearts after a shattering penalty shoot-out defeat to Nottingham Forest in last season's play-offs.

But City could rightly claim to being unbeaten in open play in league games after the tie finished 1-1 after extra-time.

Academy director Jon Rudkin said: "It was an outstanding achievement to remain undefeated in the league and we have some good memories.

"We want to win leagues and cups but that has always been secondary to the development of the players."

Academy prospects Jorrin John, Jeffrey Schlupp, Liam Moore and Tom Parkes have all tasted first-team action during the pre-season campaign.

They remain eligible for Academy clashes and Rudkin said: "It's been a very busy period for them and they have been monitored by the senior management.

"It sends out a positive message that the opportunities will come if they work hard."

Rudkin said the club was entering another "exciting" period in its history under new owners Vichai Raksriaksorn and his son, Aiyawatt.

The Thai business moguls say they want young players in Asia to link up with the City academy as the club spreads a coaching network which is already operating in India.

Rudkin said: "The owners, along with chairman Milan Mandaric, have expressed an exciting vision for the club, including the Academy.

"It is early days yet, but I am sure a strategy will be plotted out and we will see where we go with it.

"The club wants to explore all markets, but it also has a long history of producing local talent."

Rudkin highlighted City midfielder Andy King as an outstanding example.

"He has come through the Academy and scored his first goal for Wales last week

"He is an excellent role model, as are many of the seniors who the younger lads look up to."

[Hitesh]

Hopefully the lads can keep the momentum from last season!

[davieG]

OS

Leicester City U18 2 - 4 Crewe Alexandra

Posted on: Mon 23 Aug 2010City's Academy side made a surprise losing start to their campaign, going down 4-2 at home to Crewe Alexandra.

The home side went in at the interval a goal to the good thanks to Jorrin John but it was a different story after the break.

The visitors nosed ahead with two goals, one from the penalty spot after a harsh decision against the home side.

City battled back and got a penalty themselves, converted by John for the equaliser. Crewe immediately restored their lead and with City pushing for another equaliser, they were hit by a fourth.

[Bugg]

Crewe academy are quality though aren't they?

[crouchie]

This game sounded a lot more entertaining!! Lets hope our form will quickly pick up...Blue Army!!