Loan Army – Ep. 1
August 26, 2021
By Buez HadguWith the transfer window deadline fast approaching, we look at how some of the hottest academy prospects fare on loan, in search of first-team football.
Across Europe, developing youth talent has always been a major factor in the measure of success for the biggest clubs.
From the Class of 92’ to La Masia’s legendary crop to the more recent golden generations, youngsters have played a big part in helping clubs achieve success and record revenue.
Over the past few years, the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal have developed a reputation for bringing through the best youth talent in the country.
Famous for their large-scale loan system, Cobham has become responsible for the rising ‘Loan Army’ across the country. Despite enduring heavy criticism in the late 2000s, it has ultimately proved to be a success.
In this weekly segment, we’ll be evaluating how some of the most talked about academy stars are coping with their loan moves away from their parent clubs throughout the season. Shining a light on top performances, both in the English leagues and abroad.
It is through this very loan system that many stars have benefited from, with the likes of Harry Kane and Jermaine Defoe experiencing the positive sides.
Levi Colwill:
Chelsea loanee, Levi Colwill, has hit the ground running with Huddersfield Town in the Championship.
The 18-year-old centre back scored a last-minute winner at Sheffield United, his maiden professional goal, to compliment his impressive first four league games at the club.
Operating on the left of a back three, Colwill has really made an impression on ‘The Terriers’ fans, having played 100% of their league minutes.
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It’s not just the supporters he has impressed, with teammate Naby Sarr describing the youngsters’ impact as ‘crazy’.
Coming from Chelsea, where the position he plays is in high demand, the England youth international will need to have a very consistent season to force his way up the pecking order.
Callum Doyle:
17-year-old Callum Doyle is enjoying his first loan spell away from Manchester City at League One outfit Sunderland AFC.
The youngster played 90 minutes in his senior debut for the Black Cats. Impressively, he kept Charlie Wyke very quiet from left-back, a forward who recorded a staggering 30 goals the previous season.
His manager Lee Johnson hailed him as having the best passing in the division following his debut.
With this season being his first season in professional men’s football, the full-back looks astonishingly comfortable, a trait that will become more valuable as you return up the divisions.
EFL pundit Sam Parkin was full of praise for the u18 England international. He was seen on Quest lauding the astounding performance of Doyle.
http://
Black cats purring about @ManCity loanee Callum Doyle 🐈⬛
A great start for @SunderlandAFC 💪#EFLonQuest – Saturdays at 9pm #EFL #SAFC @RokerReport @SAFCsource @ALS_Fanzine
Stream free on demand with @discoveryplusUK: https://t.co/5BVoLl5xim pic.twitter.com/rET5tavKnp
— Quest (@QuestTV) August 7, 2021
Tahith Chong:
Following loan spells abroad in Belgium and Germany, to varying degrees of success, Tahith Chong may have finally found the right place.
On loan at Birmingham City, the attacking, exciting, and direct winger has captured the attention of the Championship. Those that managed to catch glimpses of him in Manchester United’s pre-season or through his academy may have seen this coming.
Tahith Chong is going to be the first championship player to win the Ballon d’Or.
— Stephen Davies (@sameboat) August 21, 2021
In his most recent fixture against Luton Town, the Dutchman had a hand in creating two goals, much to the delight of his gaffer, Lee Bowyer.
Playing in the number 10 as opposed to the flanks has meant he has had to refine his game and adapt his style of play.
Tahith Chong’s game by numbers vs. Luton Town:
82% pass accuracy
5 attempted long passes
4 successful long passes
3 attempted tackles
3 fouls suffered
2 successful tackles
2 shots [2 on target]
1 chance created
1 clearance
1 assistGood to see him performing. 🔵🔵🔵 pic.twitter.com/xQCAP2CE20
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) August 21, 2021
Deservedly the 21-year-old made the team of the week, if he can continue at a high level in the Championship, a step up into the Premier League – either at United or elsewhere.
This article was written by Buez Hadgu. To check out their other work click here or you can leave them a comment below.
