PHIL Granville is ready to put his faith in Harefield United’s youth system.
United have a thriving youth football setup at Preston Park and Hares senior boss Granville is keeping tabs on developments across the club.
From a reserve side, managed by Richard Frape, right through to an U7s outfit, Harefield are working hard to produce the next generation of Wayne Rooneys and Steven Gerrards.
Granville’s main focus remains on the senior side of course, where he is happy with the squad at his disposal, and has already experimented with promoting youth players.
The emergence of U18s skipper Carl Pearce this season has been a particular highlight as the defender broke into the first-team with a series of superb displays.
Pearce suffered a sickening leg injury against Berkhamstead in December and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, halting the staggering progress the youngster has made.
But despite the setback, Granville, whose side were beaten 2-0 at AFC Dunstable on Saturday, is satisfied his youth policy has been vindicated and says the foundations are already being laid for a successful future.
I’m happy with the squad now and I’m not looking to bring in new signings,” he said.
“The only people we are looking to incorporate are some of the youth team guys and they are doing very well.
“When we were short of numbers they were useful. If players approach us then we will take a look but we’re not actively recruiting.
“We’re looking more at bringing players through and getting them ready for next season with the first-team.”
Harefield were last night (Tuesday) due to take on Ashford Town (Middx) in the re-arranged Middlesex Senior Cup quarter-final.
Elsewhere, Hillingdon Borough lost 3-2 at home to Stotfold on Saturday despite goals from Rob Laney and Keiron Gradwell.
