Another interesting point – although not directly related – is how certain players have suffered generationally, having come through at a time when another player is already established in a particular position. Although I agree that, more often than not, if a player is good enough then he will break through. But, equally, I’m sure there are also many players who have simply not made it – or, at least, have not been as successful as they could have been – due to the existence and over-establishment of others.

I wonder how many left-midfielders failed behind Ryan Giggs, for example. I’m sure someone like Jermaine Defoe would have played more for England had it not been for Wayne Rooney; and I’m sure the same could be said for someone like Michael Carrick, who has emerged at a time when Frank Lampard’s place in the England side is very much secure. On the flip side, there are also a number of players who have played above their talent due, in part, to a lack of strong competition. The eternal problem of England’s left midfield might be a good example of this.

Of course there are always a number of other factors that will always determine the success (or lack of success) of a given player – notably that of dedication and hard work, good career choices, lack of injuries etc. – but it was just something I was thinking about. Enjoyed the article and enjoy the website so keep up the good work at Pitchinvasion!

Cheers,
The Gaffer

Whey you say, “the best players at 17 are rarely the best players at 25″ I couldn’t agree with you more. When I was a pro I saw so many players that were studs at the youth level do terrible at the pro level. Mostly because they didn’t know how to fight for their right to play and improve like the Jay DeMirt’s and December birthday’s of the world!

I think sometimes coaches need to realize you can’t take a big athletic player who is just okay and turn them into a player and ignore the small player who is really good but just not mature enough yet. A great example of this is Sir Alex Ferguson when he talks about David Beckham when he was just starting at Manchester United. The players in his age class Giggs, Scholes, and Butt where all breaking into the 1st team but David was sent out on loan to a small League 3 team I believe. Sir Alex told David your body had just not matured yet and we fully believe in you as a player. This will be a good thing for you he said and you will come back stronger and more mature. Now look at him.

It is sad to think that some coaches would have just told Beck’s he was to small and he couldn’t play for their team.

You make a great point in this story and I hope it helps people think about youth development a little more deeply. Thanks!