Tributes to former Swans academy boss who helped Bale on path to stardom

TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Swansea City academy manager who helped nurture young talent, including Gareth Bale and Trent Alexander-Arnold, throughout his career.

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At the weekend, Fulham announced the passing of Malcolm Elias, their head of academy recruitment. The Welshman, who had a 16-year tenure at Craven Cottage, was crucial in the development of his compatriot Bale at Southampton's academy.

Alexander-Arnold, who Elias helped develop during his time at Anfield, won eight major trophies with boyhood club Liverpool before joining Real Madrid earlier this month.

Having started his career with nine years at Oxford United, Elias then worked as Swansea City's academy manager between 1995 and 1999 before his spells with Southampton, Liverpool and Fulham.