Slaying The Dragons -- The English Youth Academy

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Might be late tonight, might be tomorrow morning, dunno yet.

EDIT: Gonna start working on it now.
 
Awesome, looking forward to it. I'll update after you do if you still want me to?
 
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St. George FC Post-Season Review 2010/11​

As I wondered up to the stage, I had a strange de ja vu feeling as I held my notes firmly in my sweaty palms, and looked back at the audience, who were applauding loudly. I'd been in front of bigger crowds, but I still got that jitter in the pit of my stomach.​

I'd just been introduced by David Triesman, and the Club Chairman gave me a firm handshake and a quick "good luck" as he gestured me over to the microphone in the centre of the stage. I slowly unravelled my notes, looked up at the audience, cleared my throat, and began.​

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. It's wonderful to see so many of you here tonight, celebrating what has been a fantastic season.​

We've had alot of ups and downs, as does everything in life, but we have been higher, for longer, than many other clubs. We've seen some dominant performances, and players of St. George FC have really lit up the League 1 stage this season and brough alot of publicity to an otherwise sub-standard league.​

Next season, the N-Power Championship beckons, and we're going to have to make some sales, and strengthen the squad with a few new lads. I can confirm that we have accepted the £3million offer from Hoffenheim for James Tomkins and he is currently over in Germany as we speak. I wish him all the luck in his, hopefully successful, future.​

And now on to why we are here tonight: the players. I've been honoured to work with these guys this season, I really have. Last season, they were all a bag of nerves, and were no-where near gelling. This year, they have really progressed not only as individuals, but as a team.​

Obviously there are some stand-out performers, and they will be rewarded accordingly. But as a whole, the team set a record for most points in the third tier of English football, and I am very proud of them. And I haven't even got onto the League Cup.​

There are a fair few awards to be given out tonight, some not as good as others, but all of them are deserved. And at the end of the night, we've got a couple of extra special announcements.​

So without furthur ado, I wish to present you with my St. George FC Manager's Team of the Year. As the players come up to receive their medals, please, give them a round of applause. They do deserve it.​

Goalkeeper: Alex Smithies​


Time after time, first Steve Gatting and then Joss Bennett were asked which areas of the team they thought they were the strongest. And time after time, Goalkeeper was the answer. Young Alex has proved himself not only in open play, but has shown he is more than capable when faced with the pressure of penalties. His attitude and general work-rate are fantastic, and I am very pleased that Alex Smithies is a Dragon Slayer.​

Right Back: Jordan Spence​


I think this was the hardest position on the pitch to decide who to put here. Michael Mancienne played a few more games, but Jordan was always one of the best players on the team, and I think he's going to be a critical part of the team next year, I really do. He's definately more of a solid full-back than an up-and-down-the-wing sort of player. But that works with Ryan patrolling the line on the either side. Jordan has been a real asset and after he proved his worth away on loan last season, he definately made an impact on the first team this year.​

Centre Back: Chris Smalling​


This lad is simply a rock. He's the complete centre back, and is able to play however you want him. The dying breed of real courageous English centre-backs is being brought to life with Chris, and he can easily go on to make many, many caps for his country. He's stepped in as my captain many times when Jack's been away and has done a more than satisfactory job. He's a leader at the back, and his no nonsense attitude coupled with his will to do well makes him an excellent player with huge potential.​

Centre Back: Lee Wilcox​


Ever since I received that first email, I knew this kid had talent. He's only 17 years old and he's premiership quality already. He's a quick, tidy centre-back and provides the perfect partner for Chris Smalling. Lee is always striving to improve and I can almost guarantee, he will play for England. Even the areas which are not up to scratch, he takes the advice, learns from it, and comes back better than ever. This young lad is a credit to himself.​

Left Back: Ryan Bertrand​


I've seen comparisons drawn between Ryan and some of the best in the world. He bombs up and down the line with Tom Cleverley cutting in, in front of him. Ryan is a workhorse and has been ever present for us this season. After not setting the world on fire last season, he came back with a bang and has been a fixture in the first team ever since. His bombing down the wing has maintained an astonishing assist record for a full-back but he is never lacking when it comes to defense.​

Centre Midfield: Jack Rodwell (captain)​


Moved into a slightly more advanced position this season, he was able to play his deep-lying playmaker role to perfection and his leadership has been fantastic. His passion and drive were highlighted by his face when lifting both the Carling Cup and the N-Power League 1 Trophy. Jack's a competitive young man, and won't settle for second best. His ability on the ball is just outstanding and it's no wonder Real Madrid, Arsenal and Liverpool have all been interested in attaining his services.​

Centre Midfield: Fabian Delph​


As a genuine box-to-box midfielder, Fabian was allowed more freedom this season. Sitting in behind the most deadly attack in the league just allowed him to let himself run wild and he had a really terrific season. And when asked to play the box-to-box midfield role; he really, really did play it. The amount of ball he receives per game is ridiculous, and you take him out the side and we simply don't function nearly as well. His creativity and simple passing ability are key assets to the team.​

Right Attacking Midfield: Jose Baxter​


As a £5million signing in League 1, there is always pressure put on you. But Jose rose to it, and managed to steal a slot from Jordan Henderson, who is definately a player with bags of talent. Jose is capable of cutting in, and has fillied the striker's role from time to time. He has a knack for goalscoring, wherever he is on the pitch, and his assist rate isn't to shabby either. His runs down the line, and ferocious crosses into the box are one reason why Nile Ranger has been so prolific.​

Centre Attacking Midfield: Victor Moses​


Before he became a Dragon Slayer, Victor had always been an out-and-out striker. I saw huge potential with him sitting in the role behind the striker, and he has shown why he's been placed there. His power and strength makes him Drogbaesque yet he has the creativity to control a game and can flip a game on it's head. My only criticism is that he's too hot and cold, but that can work in our favour as he pulls the odd moment out the hat that just leaves you speechless.​

Left Attacking Midfield: Tom Cleverley​


Tom is a real fan favourite and has captured the eye of hundreds with his quick feet and mouth-watering step overs. But he's more than just a bag of tricks, and his goals this season have been vital to success in both cup and league. Not only can he drift in, but he can also hug the touchline when told and he can place the ball on a 20pence coin from 25 metres away. Coming through a good youth academy at Manchester United has done wonders for Tom and at some point in the future, I am sure he will return to a top Premier League club.​

Striker: Nile Ranger​


The top goal scorer, Nile has a natural eye for goal. His aerial ability really is phenomenal and his feet are more than handy, as well. He's benefitted hugely from a pair of very talented young wingers, and anything that gets near him in the air, he's bound to win. Nile's been brilliant over these two seasons since the formation of the club, and I have no doubt that will continue as we make our way up the leagues. Another player that I see no reason why he cannot play for England.​

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And that, ladies and gentlemen, is my St. George FC Manager's Team of the Year. Sorry for dragging on a bit, but this lads deserve all the praise they get and to win the League Cup, as a League 1 team, is a record breaking feat. I am eagerly awaiting seeing how these guys do at a higher level of competition.​

And also this season, we had a number of successful loans. Possibly the most successful of these is Charlie Austin, who went to Watford, an N-Power Championship side. Charlie made 41 appearances in the league and finished on a tally of 28 goals, making him the most successful striker in the Championship. He is sure to cause a few selection headaches when he returns next season.​

Paul Ionnaou, Declan Rudd, Jordan Mellis, Jonathon Bostock, Ben Greenhalgh, Andre Wisdom, Ryan Noble and more, were all away on loan spells and all exceeded expectations. A number of high performances mean they are all competing for spots in the side next season.​

And now onto the awards. The first of these is Fan's Player of the Year. An official poll was held on our website and the end result could be seen as a suprise to some, but I feel he definately deserves it, and that young lad is prominent left-back Ryan Bertrand. Congratulations.​

Manager's Player of the Year is given out to one player decided by Joss Bennett and I. Taking into account that you cannot win two awards, we have decided that the award will be given to Fabian Delph for this season. Congratulations.​

And last but by no means least is Players' Player of the Year. Each player was given just one vote of who they think has had the best season this year. And unsuprisingly, there were two main candidates for the postion. Alex Smithies was unlucky to come second by a single vote. But the winner is Tom Cleverley. ​

And the last award I have to award tonight is very, very special. Every season from now on in, St. George FC will induct one member of it's playing squad into the Dragon Slayers Hall of Fame. This is for outstanding performance throughout the season, and for huge commitment shown on and off the pitch.​

The first ever player to receive this highly prestigous award, and be inducted into the Dragon Slayers Hall of Fame is none other than the man who ended up with 19 goals, and 18 assists, it's the former Aston Villa man Fabian Delph. Very well done, Fabian, you certainly deserve it.​

I also, am very unhappy to mention that Michael Mancienne will be leaving the club on the 1 July 2011. We have agreed a fee with AZ Alkamaar, and with his age nearing the time where we must release him; a £3.8million offer was too much to refuse. He has been a brilliant servant to the club, and I wish him the best of futures.​

And that concludes are award's dinner for the season of 2010/11. It's been a very good season, we've had some bumps, but fought through them, and I am sure we will power on into the Championship as a side looking for promotion. And I know we are very capable. Thank you and I hope you have a safe drive home."​

---------- Post added at 01:05 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:04 AM ----------

*takes long breath*

I hope you enjoy it. Took me the best part of 2 and a half hours to get everything sorted.
 
Borrring...

JOKING.. Great update as usual mate, don't think there's anything i'd do to improve that!

I think i'll update tomorrow if that's OK - just becaause it's half one and there's not many people on atm!
PM me with anything you want me to include.
 
It does get repetitive and a bit boring, but I really thank anyone that does read it. :)

And that's fine Joss.
 
Great update mate, cant wait to see how you do in the Championship!
 
Just like to say, since I quit as coach earlier in the season I have still been following this story because I think it is even better without me. You maybe wondering why I did quit the job as coach and that was because me and Joss didn't seem to get along very well and because I have been extremlely busy in real life over the past month. I would just like to say well done to Ed, this is a fantastic story and not just because of the way your write but you are obviosly brilliant at FM as a whole. I will continue to follow St.George FC aswell as begining to write my first ever story on FM Base. Ed I would also like to be interested in writing with you again or possibly now be re-instated as coach in this story. It is your decision and I will not take offence to your decision. Well done Ed!
 
Gonna have a small break from writing this. Between seasons seems the right time, and plus, I've got things going on.
 
Brilliant story, I enjoy reading every update. Truly fantastic. One thing though, you've neglected Chelsea's Josh McEachran?
 
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Assistant Manager Joss Bennett gives his final press conference of a season which has been a joy to watch for St. George FC fans and neutrals alike, as the club completed a brilliant double in just it's second season as a football club. This press conference was special, as Manager's Player of the Year, Fabian Delph joined Bennett for a 'fans only' press conference, as the club also opened the newly named, and improved 'Trevor Brooking' Stand, which will be replacing the North End from the start of the season, as Championship regulations state stadiums must hold at least 30,000 people.
For those that missed out on the brilliant awards ceremony, hosted by the manager, this was a recap of the occasion, and Bennett's thoughts about it, as well as an opportunity for fans to ask all sorts of questions to the first player to enter the Dragon Slayers Hall of Fame.​

First Question, asked by Joel Matthews, from London:
Joss, how do you feel having finally completed a long, but hugely successful season at St. George's Park?

Bennett replied:
I feel relieved Joel, i can now finally go home and get some much needed rest, more importantly, the players can some much more deserved rest, at least most of them can, but Fabian has to stay here and talk to you! I feel proud to be a part of the club, as i said when i first arrived, i wasn't expecting to be this heavily involved, but it's great that we have been able to give the players something back for all their hard work this season, and last.

George Crawshaw, from Dorset:
What kind of a role do you see Charlie Austin having at the club next season, after such a prosperous spell in the championship last year, do you think there is a chance he can pinch the first place spot ahead of Ranger? Or will you be changing things around to have two strikers, instead of the one?

Bennett:
That's a good question, one which i'm not really able to answer unfortunately, as i'm not the boss, and Charlie has only just returned to the club. What i will say is this: Nile Ranger came to us, from Newcastle, an old championship side and has been playing with the same players for a long time now. This is why he has been playing so well for us, and why the club is doing so well, when players are young, they learn each other's games very quickly, and adapt accordingly. Charlie [Austin] is even younger, and so has more time to gradually build up his reputation at the club, and if he impresses us in pre-season and beyond, then i see no reason why he can't get some games, and goals under his belt. At this moment in time, for the reasons given, Nile is still first choice. As far as formation is concerned, we so far see no reason to change what has been hugely successful tactics, but i'm sure we will look at different options in pre-season, and depending on the game.
Talking of strikers, i am delighted to bring news that Nathan Delfuenso is showing good signs of recovery and that surgery was a success on his right knee. He will not be joining us for pre-season though, and we wish him the best of luck for a speedy return to football.

Sarah, from Burton:
The manager gave brief reference to two players leaving the club this summer, can you develop on that?

Bennett
The situation is very much as the manager said, two fees have been agreed, one for Mancienne, who is now 23, and is therefore no longer eligible to play for the club. The other is for James Tomkins, who is set to sign for Hoffenheim in Germany. We wish both players the best of luck for the future, and would like to thank both for their time at St. George.

Mark, Burton:
How did you think the awards ceremony went Joss? Did the right players win?

Bennett
I thought it was a huge success, there were lots of people, fans and journalists, and players and their families, and it was a great way to end the season. Fabian Delph, here was unsurprisingly in the running for most prizes, he and Jack Rodwell have developed a magnificent relationship in the centre of midfield, and they both do their jobs brilliantly, as they get back to tackle, as well as having an eye for goal, or a pass through the eye of a needle. Tom Cleverley was also shortlisted for several awards, and he keeps getting better and better, despite playing almost every game for the club since it was made two years ago now. He applies himself in training, and the boss and i set several players targets after the League Cup final, to try and ensure complacency didn't become an issue, it seems to have worked.
We'll have another Press Conference when we are back from holiday, and there will be a couple of new faces to introduce.
 
Really good update, Joss.

I've played to August 1 in-game, if people are keen for an update I'll give you one; if not, I won't. Soooo, anyone want one?
 
Anyone else? A few more comments and I'll do it. :)
 
Superb storyline... Just read the whole 14 pages and i was gripped to it.. looking forward to next season!!
 
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