The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Huge Posh boost as improved Academy status is granted
The award of an Academy Two status will propel Posh nearer to their dream of a first team squad full of homegrown players.
Posh added two more Academy graduates to their senior ranks this week with last year’s under 18 skipper Charlie O’Connell and left-back Aaron Powell signing two year professional contracts.
Posh also took on teenage centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez for the next two years following his release from Gillingham and a short spell at Ramsgate FC.
The club believe Academy Two status will enhance the development of young players at London Road.
Planning permission for a new dome over the club’s training facilities at the Nene Park Academy was vital to securing the improved status and was granted by Peterborough City Council last month.
The Academy system in English football is split into four categories with Academy One the highest grading possible.
Posh are now eligible to enter a high quality Under 23 league which is expected to speed up the development of younger players.
Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony said: “With our new Academy status and under 23 team the club is in its best place for over 20 years to produce and bring through proper home grown talent.
“Around 20% of the current Championship squad is talented home grown Posh players. It will be 50% plus inside five years.”
Posh co-owner Dr Jason Neale added: “Achieving Category Two status is a significant step on the path to the club’s stated goal of achieving three Academy graduates per year from 2024-2025.
“I am so proud of our team for delivering this goal and our future is very bright.”
O’Connell can play in defence or midfield and made his Football League debut for Posh in the last game of last season.
Powell has impressed in both Posh preseason friendlies so far this summer, while Fernandez was awarded his pro deal after a short trial at the end of last season.
Posh boss Darren Ferguson said: “Emanuel has a fair bit to learn, but he is a good size, he’s quick and he’s good on the ball so he ticks a lot of boxes.
“Aaron has a great left foot, while Charlie has a brilliant attitude and can play well in several positions.”
MacAnthony: “Our squad will have 50% homegrown players in five years.”