Academy Weekly | Manchester United

Friends of the Academy initiative begins

Zoe Flanagan (Emerging Talent coach), Jennifer Mildenhall (Emerging Talent programme manager) and Cox (head of Academy) hosted the first ‘Friends of the Academy’ event last week. More than 200 local youth football coaches have signed up for the initiative, which is designed to share the club’s resources and knowledge with coaches, schools, junior clubs and young players across the North West.

Many of those coaches virtually attended the scheme’s first webinar, in which Cox delivered a detailed introduction to the Academy and the programme that young players followed at Manchester United. Nick, Jen and Zoe answered questions on both how the Academy operates and tips for developing coaches. Further details on an inspiring first event, and what will come next, will follow.

Loan watch

James Garner’s Nottingham Forest had the chance to create dramatic final day action with a midweek Championship victory away at Bournemouth, but Ethan Laird’s Cherries prevailed 1-0 to secure their automatic promotion. Forest, meanwhile, will now compete in the play-offs against Sheffield United after finishing fourth. The first leg of that semi-final will be played at Bramall Lane on Saturday, 14 May. Good luck, James, and congratulations, Ethan!

Midfielder Dylan Levitt couldn’t continue his goalscoring form and was on the losing side for Dundee United against Rangers, for whom Amad netted the second of two goals.

Garnacho nominated for award

Alejandro Garnacho is on the short list for April’s Premier League 2 Player-of-the-Month award. The other nominees are: Jack Bearne (Liverpool), Mika Biereth (Arsenal), Lewis Brunt (Leicester Cty), Liam Delap (Manchester City), Cole Palmer (Manchester City), Sony Perkins (West Ham United), Crysencio Summerville (Leeds United).

The shortlist was chosen by the Premier League Football Development Panel after PL2 club coaches picked the best performance by an opposing player in each of their league matches in April. The Panel will also select the winner.