Southend United’s youth team will take on Wolverhampton Wanderers tomorrow (kick-off 3pm) in the semi-final of the Cars4All Trophy.
The tournament will also see Leicester City and Norwich City square up for a place in the final of the two day competition that is being hosted at Roots Hall.
“It’s a quality tournament and it gives the fans a chance to come and see some players who will be first-team players in 18 month’s time,” said Head of Youth Ricky Duncan.
“It’s the third year now we have done this and it is great that we have attracted three great sides again.”
“Wolves and Norwich are both Premier League sides with academy set-ups and Leicester are also very strong, so it will be another excellent weekend.”
“I think it shows that we have a good reputation and people know we have a good youth system here.”
“We’ve worked hard for that to happen and teams have been ringing up asking to take part in our tournament.”
“It’s brilliant and we’re looking forward to what will be two tough tests.”
Kane Ferdinand impact on the club’s first-team last year was a major boost for the Shrimpers and Duncan believes that given time more like him will follow.
He continued; “With youth development it’s not a quick fix it’s got to be a long term strategy.”
“Once you’ve got that in place you can attract players because they know there’ll get a chance at your club,”?? he added.
