Sky Blues Under-18s coach, Andy Crabtree believes 2018 has been an important year for the development of his side.
After a difficult start to the 2017/18 season in terms of results, performances have picked up this year and that has seen a turn of fortune in outcomes in games.
City have integrated their new first year scholars into the fold during the summer months as well as watched the promotion to the under 23s for several players.
Reflecting on 2018, Crabtree feels the Sky Blues Under-18s are in a better position at the close of the year, compared to the start.
He said: “2018 has been an important year in the development for the under 18s for a number of reasons.
“It has seen the successful integration of first year scholars into the full-time programme, promising performances from u16s when selected, individuals earn professional contracts and steady improvement as a group against very competitive opposition.
“In comparison to last season, the performances and results have improved. On occasion the result hasn’t matched what the performance has deserved, which has been disappointing for the players but illustrates improvement in our play.
“We are in a better position at this moment in time, we believe this is due to a stronger togetherness within the group and are well aware that this needs to continue in the new year if we are to build on the start we have made to this season.”
During the 2018/19 season, two of Crabtree’s side, Jack Burroughs and Jonny Ngandu have been rewarded with first team debuts in the Checkatrade Trophy.
The duo have been with the Sky Blues Academy since they were seven years old and Andy was delighted to see them rewarded for their hard work.
“It’s always very special to see individuals make their first team debuts because it is testament to all the hard work and commitment they show on a regular basis.
“Jack Burroughs and Jonny Ngandu have been in the academy system from under 7 and have worked with a number of talented players and coaches on their journey so far.
“We as an academy are very pleased to see the progress they have made to date and look forward to seeing them continue their work.”
As we get set to enter a New Year, Crabtree is hoping to build on the success the Under-18s have had during 2018.
“Our aims for 2019 are to continue to build on the successes of the season to date. We have had staff and player review meetings which have presented ideas on whats worked well and what we can improve on.
“It’s crucial as a group of staff and players that we recognise these areas and drive through the improvement moving forwards."