Throughout this week, the EFL will be showcasing the importance of the EFL and its Clubs in developing young, academy and home-grown players and their progression through the English football pyramid.
According to new research, during the 2021/22 EFL season:
- 209 debuts were made by academy developed players at the club where they were developed.
- An average of 81% of players named on EFL team sheets in 2021/22 season were home grown players.
- 27% of professional EFL players were academy developed at that same Club – the highest level seen.
- Club developed players in EFL starting line-ups has increased by 18% since the 2017/18 season.
50% of the 209 debuts made by academy developed players last season were made in the Papa Johns Trophy as the competition continues to provide opportunities for the next generation at both EFL Clubs.
The competition invited U21 sides, benefitting the growth of English Football with the likes of Jordan Pickford, Declan Rice and Harry Maguire all featuring in the competition early in their careers.
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With Gareth Southgate set to announce his England World Cup squad later this week, the expectation is that many of those squad members will have played in the EFL, came through an EFL academy, or made their debut in EFL competition – re-emphasising the crucial role the EFL plays in the English football pyramid.