Youth Perspective Vs Hornchurch (31.8.26)

United first team coach and U23s manager JAMIE RAYNOR writes today’s development review.

Good afternoon and welcome to the Jakemans Community Stadium for today’s fixture against Hornchurch.

It’s been another busy period for the U23s, with the group continuing to develop both on and off the pitch as we work through a competitive fixture programme. The early part of the season has given the players a great opportunity to test themselves against a variety of opposition and continue adapting to the demands of senior football.

Last week, we faced King’s Lynn Town, providing another valuable test for the group. These fixtures are an important part of our programme, allowing players to experience different styles and levels of opposition while giving the staff further opportunities to assess their individual and collective development.

Looking ahead, the fixture programme continues to provide some exciting challenges. We’ll face Norwich City U21s in the coming weeks, before also taking on Accrington Stanley. Matches against academy and senior opposition of this level are exactly the type of experiences we want to provide as we look to prepare our players for the demands of senior football.

We have also had some positive movement within the group in terms of loan opportunities. Sam Warburton has joined Stamford AFC on loan, which is a great opportunity for him to gain regular senior football and experience a different environment. We believe playing competitive football week in, week out will be an important next step in his development.

Stephen Pereira has also joined Ely City, giving him the opportunity to continue his development through regular senior football. These opportunities are an important part of our pathway, and we’ll continue to support both players throughout their loan spells.

For us, the aim is always to ensure that every player is being challenged at the right level and receiving the experiences they need to progress. Whether that is here with the U23s, training with the first team or gaining valuable minutes out on loan, every experience contributes to their development.

The fixture programme we’ve put together this season is a big part of that process. The variety of opposition, alongside the increased contact time with the players, gives us a great platform to continue developing the group and preparing them for the next step in their careers.

There is a lot to be excited about within the group, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the players continue to develop as the season progresses.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our Academy and U23 programme. Your encouragement makes a real difference to the young players representing the club.

Enjoy today’s game. Up the Pilgrims!

Jamie Raynor
First Team Coach/U23s Manager