Off the back of changes to professional development leagues in England, Watford’s Under-23 side will now become Under-21 ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
In June, the Premier League announced changes to the Premier League 2 and lower development leagues which would see the age limit lowered by two years to reflect the average age of sides in last year’s competition, standing at 19.
As part of an effort to ensure young players gain experience with and against older players, the limit on over-age outfield players in the leagues has been increased from three to five, with one over-age goalkeeper also.
Watford Academy Director Richard Johnson is positive about the change, and sees it as a benefit to the youngsters at the club.
“It’s a welcome change, the average age within the Under-23s was 19 so many clubs were sticking to that age group anyway,” Johnson explained.
“That was something myself and Jimmy wanted to quickly change here, promoting youth, promoting Under-16s to Under-18 football and Under-18s to Under-23s. For what we’re trying to do in the Academy it’s a very welcome change.
“We’ve got a young group within the PDP programme now, we’re looking forward to seeing how the boys progress. With the five over-age players, it could be of real benefit for the younger lads to have experience in there.”
