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Two young Blues helped England U-17s become European Champions with two more heading to Toulon tournament with England U-21s
Everton stars Ryan Ledson, left, and Jonjoe Kenny, who helped England U-17s to glory at the European Championships
Even by the lofty standards of Everton FC’s acclaimed academy, this summer is set to be a proud one.
The club’s U-18s are fresh from a title success, two of their leading lights helped England U-17s become European Champions and two more are heading to the Toulon tournament with England U-21s.
Perhaps best of all Ross Barkley, at just 20, is widely being touted for a major role in Roy Hodgson’s England’s World Cup campaign in Brazil.
Some clubs, most notably Manchester City and Chelsea, can afford to spend infinite sums on their academies, and yet they cannot compare with the Toffees’ achievements.
Kevin Sheedy, the club legend and U-18s coach, is justifiably proud - but what is the secret of Finch Farm's renowned production line?
“It’s about hard work right the way through at every level,” he says. “And at the same time the lads can see a progression up through the ranks.
“There is a pathway which the young players can see and aim for the next level. It keeps them focused.
“The future is looking good for us.”
Sheedy refused to be drawn on the difference between the Blues and their big-spending rivals, such as Tottenham and City who he masterminded wins over to clinch the U-18s league crown.
But his message is clear. “I prefer to focus on Everton rather than talking about other clubs,” he says.
“But it must be difficult for young players at some clubs to break through when they’ve got so many world class players blocking the way at first team level.
“At Everton we’ve got a lot of world class players too. You only have to look at our representation at the World Cup to see that.
“But maybe our squad at first team isn’t as big as some others so we can give young lads a chance.
“We have players with the same potential coming up in the academy now.
“We won the U-18s title against Manchester City with five schoolboys on the pitch by the end. The likes of Liam Walsh will be first year scholars next season.
“We beat Tottenham in the semi final and City in the final, and I think we played better football throughout the season overall as well.”
The ultimate success for Sheedy is seeing players he has coached feature for Everton’s first team, a prospect which spurs everyone in the youth ranks on.
Rylan Ledson has already been on the bench against Southampton last term, as have Tyias Browning and Luke Garbutt.
“They are both making good progress after going out on loan with a good attitude,” says Sheedy.
“Being selected for England U-21s is a big thing. I’m looking forward to see how they do and how they can make the most of pre-season with Roberto Martinez and kick on next season.
“They only need to look at what Ross has achieved.”
