Welcome to episode 9 of The Added Time Podcast with Alan Myers and Tony Grant. In this must-listen episode, the pair dive deep into the evolution of football academies and youth systems in professional football. Special guest Stuart Jones, former Head of Academy at Blackburn Rovers, joins us to reveal the real impact of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and how it’s reshaped the pathway for young footballers in England.Discover how the EPPP transformed youth football in the UK and why the focus has shifted from team success to individual player development. Learn what it means to be a Category 1 academy and why top facilities and expert staff matter for young talent. Hear real stories from Blackburn Rovers’ academy, including the rise of David Raya and Adam Wharton, and get honest insights on the challenges and rewards of preparing players for the Premier League.This episode explores the crucial role of parents, mental health, and aftercare in youth football, and discusses how coaching philosophies and player pathways are changing the future of English football. Whether you’re a football coach, parent, aspiring player, or a fan of the beautiful game, you’ll find expert advice, behind-the-scenes stories, and actionable insights on what it really takes to make it in professional football today