From Kids to Champions

The FA Youth Cup has showcased young talent since 1952, including Sir Matt Busby's legendary 'Babes'. The likes of Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Leeds United and Millwall have lit up the tournament with superstar sides. Jonny Brick examines what it takes to turn a talented kid into a champion, with player recollections from the past 70 years.

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As Britain takes its first steps outside EU jurisdiction, how will football clubs adjust? With the FA keen on tournament success, the FA Youth Cup will play a key role in bringing academy products to prominence. Since 1952, it has showcased future stars including Sir Matt Busby's legendary 'Babes'. Over 40 years the trophy changed hands every season bar one, with the likes of Crystal Palace, Millwall, Leeds United and Manchester City lighting up the tournament with superstar teams. The current era has seen the dominance of elite sides, often owned by oligarchs or billionaire investors. From Kids to Champions tells the stories of players who didn't make it at the top level, or left the game disillusioned, along with those of the important coaches and academy directors. These men are always first to be thanked when the kids become champions.