EFL BIDS TO GIVE YOUTH CHANCE TO SHINE
player’ on the team sheet, they will only be permitted to name up to six substitutes rather than the usual seven.
The changes, which aim to create a clearer pathway from clubs’ development programmes into the professional game, were formally approved at an EFL EGM in London following a meeting of all 72 clubs.
EFL chief executive Shaun Harvey said: “I hope this latest commitment made by our clubs is further evidence of the EFL taking the initiative in looking for practical and effective measures that can be introduced to help managers and coaches in the ongoing development of young players.
“It is imperative that we provide young players not only with a platform, but also with the belief that opportunities will be made available to progress from youth to senior football.
“I am confident that this decision will have a positive and lasting impact on the future of football in this country.” EFL clubs have shown their determination to increase opportunities for young players to progress by approving two propoals.
Firstly, clubs have agreed to increase the number of ‘home grown players’ on team sheets from six to seven in 2017/18.
Secondly, there will be a requirement for at least one ‘club developed player’ to be named on each team sheet for any EFL League game from the start of the 2018/19 season.
A ‘home grown player’ is defined as a player who has been registered with either his current club or a club affiliated with the FA for a period of three seasons prior to his 21st birthday.
A ‘club developed player’ is a player who has been registered with his club for a minimum of 12 months prior to the end of his U19 season.
Where a club does not name a ‘club developed