WATCH: 'A major step forward for youth football' Magilton spells out plans for new generation of NI stars
Plus Niall Currie on taking Carrick Rangers to the top flight - latest Cool FM BetMcLean Show
The man tasked with unearthing the next generation of football talent in Northern Ireland has branded a new UEFA-backed plan as a springboard to the big time.
Jim Magilton, the IFA’s Elite Performance Director, believes the NI Academy could help deliver the international stars of the future.
The idea is that 14 and 15-year-olds will stay at the Academy’s Jordanstown base four nights a week while also going to school in between and then playing for their respective clubs at the weekend.
Speaking as a guest on our new BetMcLean footy show (link below) now available to view on Cool FM’s Facebook page, Magilton says it’s a great chance for young footballers to make it.
“I think it is a major step forward for youth development in Northern Ireland,” he said.
“At the end of the day we are never going to be able to stop kids migrating.
“Kids who are being selected to play for the likes of Liverpool or Man Untied at the age of t6 are still going to go.
“This is the first opportunity for them to live away for home – and give them a chance to see what it’s all about.”
Also guesting this week is Niall Currie, who led Carrick Rangers to the Danske Bank Premiership last season.
He says the promotion was the greatest achievement in his long career.
And Currie also believes his players have what it take to not only survive but more than hold their own in the top flight.