Poole Hits Out at Youth Policy

Youth Set-Up
By Chris O'Brien
June 9 2005

Former Red Devils forward David Poole left Old Trafford frustrated and disheartened at a lack of first-team opportunities. The Englishman has slammed the youth policy of many Premiership clubs, and feels it's time for British players to be put first.

Former MUFC forward David Poole has slammed United's youth player policy and feels it is becoming almost impossible for the cream of young English talent to break through at the highest levels. The youngster was a regular in the United reserve team in recent seasons but big-name signings always restricted his chance to break into the first-team, and with the club now investing in foreign youth talent, Poole was left with little choice but to leave Old Trafford.

"Pique and Rossi came across at the start of last season," said the 20-year-old. "I've got to know them well and they are good players, but it can be disheartening to see your club bring in foreign players when they've got young lads already there who are quite capable." said a disheartened Poole, who as ManUtdWeb reported as finally completed his summer move to Yeovil Town.

"The French and Italian clubs have faith in their youngsters. They think they are good enough and develop home-grown talent. I don't see why clubs in this country should be any different and it can be tough when you see a foreigner taking your place."

He joins a list of United players who promised so much in their early days in Lancashire, only to be released without breaking into senior team action. Daniel Nardiello, Ramon Calliste, Ben Collett, Lee Lawrence and Paul Tierney are all names who have been released from the youth set-up in recent weeks, and it's becoming a sad reality that cases of young British talent breaking into the big-time are becoming rarer and rarer.

"It's getting harder and harder to break through. You've only got to look at Kieran Richardson, who I played with at United, to see that. He can play for England and score two goals; yet he had to go to West Bromwich to get first-team football. I'm pleased for Kieran because we grew up together and have become good mates. It was great to see him score for England. But it is getting harder and harder for young British players at clubs like United." added Poole.