Quote Originally Posted by sinkov View Post
You're conflating ambition with common sense BT. Huddersfield have just realised that all that time, effort and cash over 18 years has produced just Jon Stead, while we've produced just Jay in ten tears. Huddersfield have seen sense and decided to row back, but we are continuing to throw money at it. And still we don't have anyone even close the first team coming through.

And if you want proof of what a waste of money it all is ponder this, both ourselves and Huddersfield are in the Premier League with zero contribution from the respective youth development systems. They're clearly not necessary, so what's the point ?
Can't fault the sentiment.

Long gone are the days when local and surrounding talent came walking in through the door.

But its always a question of risk Vs return.

How much has the youth development system actually cost us, say, over the last five years compared to funds received from transfers out?

It brings employment opportunities and fresh thoughts from Coaches, etc, and gives the place a bit of a buzz.

It's a prime reason to improve facilities.

Could throw up a surprise package and the value of a good player (and one who has matured into our system and culture) can be enormous.

Its our lottery, if you like. Our punt.

The longer we stay in the Prem the more likely we are to attract good, raw, talent so now is not the time to bottle.

Arguably, other clubs killing their youth teams puts more kids in our path.

With our new found wealth it has to be worth the effort--at least for now.