Coventry City

Coventry City Under 18s have brought a close to their 2018/19 campaign, following another successful season in development.

This season has seen the likes of Jack Burroughs and Jonny Ngandu both make the step-up to the Under 23s, as well as making their debuts in the first team.

There has also been the likes of Tom Bilson and Blaine Rowe who have also featured regularly for the Under 23s during the course of the season, as that side enjoyed a successful campaign.

Sky Blues Under 18s coach, Andy Crabtree says it’s been pleasing to see some of the lads make the step-up this season, as he reflected on the campaign.

He said: “Like any group, some individuals develop their personal performances at a quicker rate than others and therefore naturally progress to the next level. 

“It has been pleasing to see a number of lads selected to make the transition to the under 23s programme on a permanent basis from the early stages of the season.

“This has accelerated their development and in turn, given the opportunity for younger players to experience under 18s football.

“It’s important to remember how much of a positive impact this approach will have on our younger players and there’s no doubt it will improve them and allow them to be successful moving forwards.

“Each season there is an incredible amount of hard work that goes into every age group within the Academy both from a coaching and playing perspective.

“This is what enables the individuals to reach their full potential and continue their progression through the system.”

Reflecting on results in the league this season, it has been a mixed bag for Crabtree and his side.

Following a good start to the season, which saw just one defeat in the first ten, positive results were difficult to come by after the half-way stage.

Looking back on this, Crabtree said: “On reflection this season has been a huge learning experience for so many individuals who are at varying levels in their development competing in this age group. 

“I think it’s clear to see we would have ideally liked to pick up more points along the way, however the opportunity we have given some of our younger players has been valuable for them to realise their potential and make the next step up.

“Careful planning for next season is well underway and we are pleased with the potential in the group we have managed to bring together. “