Football’s academy system and youth development work are to be explored in the latest BT Sport Films instalment.
The film, No Hunger in Paradise, is based on the book by award-winning author, broadcaster and journalist Michael Calvin, and features contributions from Arsene Wenger, Gareth Southgate and Steven Gerrard.
It outlines the pressures, pitfalls and rewards of making it as a professional footballer, comes at a time of unprecedented success for England teams at age group level.
England are FIFA World Champions at Under 17 and Under 20 level, while the Under 19 squad are UEFA European Champions.
With only half of one per cent of boys who enter academies at the age of nine going on to make a living from the game, the film addresses why so many fail to make an impact at the country’s top clubs.
The Premier League are committed to investing in the region of £800million to youth development, and England international James Ward Prowse offers insight into the dedication required to beat the odds.
Simon Green, head of BT Sport, said: “It appears that it has never been harder for young players to progress to elite levels of the game.
“No Hunger in Paradise explores the pathways for young players to the top, hearing from those involved at local community centres and youth talent scouts, as well as taking a look at some of the most elite academies in the country.”
The film will premiere during FA Cup Third Round weekend of January 5 to 8, 2018.
