'Lofty ambitions' underpin Brentford academy set-up

David Rainford has only been in his academy director role at Brentford for a few months but is inheriting a significant remit: to emulate first-team success at youth level.

The Bees famously had a B team, which still exists, instead of an academy.

However, they have since built a more traditional set-up, becoming the fastest club to move from a category four academy to the highest category one status to compete against the biggest sides in England at youth level.

Speaking at the annual Robert Rowan Invitational — a charity match which Brentford lost 3-1 to Paris Saint-Germain in front of hundreds of fans at the Gtech Community Stadium — Rainford outlined his vision for the future.

On joining from the Premier League's EPPP programme: "I've been at the Premier League for nearly 10 years and was a big part of shaping the Elite Player Performance Plan — the modern framework that supports the academy system today. I also played with our B-team coach Sam Saunders and against Keith Andrews during my playing career."

Asked why he joined Brentford, Rainford said: "I saw their lofty ambitions to reach category one in record time. That's another example of how this club is unique. When they set their minds to something, they are creative, courageous and bold with their ambitions. For me, that opportunity — to come and lead at such an exciting time — was very attractive. With that infrastructure and support behind us, we can achieve some really positive things moving forward."

On competing with clubs such as Chelsea and Arsenal for London's best young players: "People should choose where they feel comfortable. There is always competition, and that's true.

"We also have a uniqueness that can help us become a very productive academy. The young people here will feel seen, and our staff will provide a strong sense of connection."

On how the B team works alongside the under-21s: "Moving into category one status, the B team and under-21s will co-exist. Some games will be B-team fixtures, others under-21 matches, but the key thing is alignment.

"There is alignment and connection throughout the club — the academy matters to everyone. Technical Director Lee Dykes and first-team coach Keith Andrews will be here. We also have former under-21 and youth development coaches on the first-team staff."

On the need to produce homegrown players: "Brentford already has a strong track record of developing players, even if not always through the academy. Many have arrived relatively unknown and gone on to become top-level players, representing England.

"It's a long-term process, but hopefully some of them will be playing at the Gtech in the years to come."