Why West Brom's academy pool is ready to roll once again

Sep 19 2009 by Ken Montgomery, Birmingham Mail

Chris Wood has come through with the likes of Lateef Elford-Alliyu, Dwayne Samuels, Romaine Sawyers and, perhaps most notably, midfielder George Thorne, showing signs of being a year or two away from first-team recognition.

Roberto Di Matteo is not afraid to blood youngsters but choosing the appropriate time is imperative.

The Italian explained the balancing act he has to manage as boss of the first team but without neglecting tomorrow’s potential heroes.

“We have a few lads who have been training since with us day one,” he said.

“We will get a few more training with us during the next international break.

“We had Michael Appleton working with them who knows them well.

“Academies are very important for any club.

“As a manager it’s difficult because when you go to a club you want to find out who is playing in the academy or reserves.

“You want to know if there is anyone you can bring through to put some pressure on older, more senior players – so I’m not afraid to give them a go.

“Last year I gave three kids debuts at 16 or 17 at MK Dons.

“But also I get measured by results and I need to produce results so it’s Catch 22. I don’t have the luxury to give too much time to a player to become a first-team player. That work has to be done before.”

New Zealander Wood has given hope to Albion’s next generation.

And Di Matteo believes he will become an influential figure among Albion’s youngsters.

“He’s a young boy and we can’t get too carried away with him,” added Di Matteo.

“Let’s give him time to develop and become a better player.

“Once he gets experience he will get better and be a great asset.

“He’s come through the academy, taken the opportunity and there are many more goals to come from him.

“He’s given hope to the younger players who can look at him, think ‘hang on a second if we do well maybe we can get a chance of making it to first team’.”