Grant: Academy trying to grow quality

CHRIS LAKEY

Norwich City's Academy hopefuls will only join the growing list of local products on merit.

Beccles teenager Chris Martin signed his first professional contract this week, while Robert Eagle has agreed a new one-year deal.

But manager Peter Grant says only those who deserve to play a role in the club's future will be called to the negotiating table.

“I wouldn't be wanting to hang on to the young boys if I didn't think they had a chance,” he said. “I am not going to keep people on for the sake of making up numbers.

“If they can't do something for this club they won't be here.

“I think it is an important part of the progression of the club that we do produce more players. It would be great if we had £15m, £16m, but I have heard Jose Mourinho speak and they would love to produce their own players. He said it himself, he looks into his youth set-up and he doesn't think he can bring somebody in at centre back who can play in his first team.

“We are trying to bring good quality young boys through and it is no use having people here who are never going to play for this club.

“I want people here who are going to have a chance with this club. But if there are other guys out there who I think are better I will bring them in. If I can afford to bring them in I will bring them in. I am not going to stand still and say everyone is going to come through the Academy, life tells you that is not going to happen.

“But while they are here and while they have got a chance and while I have seen them they are on pole position. Because if they are not good enough and I have not got enough people round and about I will go and get other one s in. I know there are players who would love to be playing at this club - unfortunately they cost a few bob and we haven't got that amount of money.”