HANDLE WITH CARE

Teen talent needs nurturing as elite end of the Premier League is a tough place for young men

- BY ANDY DUNN

MANCHESTER CITY have not only established themselves as the most dominant force in Premier League football, they have also been recognised for their powerhouse academy.

In investing millions into its junior system, it is not alone. Far from it. No money or attention is spared in identifying elite young talent, whether local or imported.

Yet coming through the City ranks and getting frequent starts as a first-teamer in your teenage years is not easy.

You can certainly get a look-in, as players such as Rico Lewis and Nico O'Reilly have proved. But it is tough. Even when everyone expects you to be a world-beater, it can be difficult.