I think even way back when it was still part of the dream of being a professional footballer though. I remember when I was that age waiting for my hero Billy Gilbert to turn up outside the ground, he’d roll up in a flash Jag at the age of 19/20 and I yearned for that sort of money. I know they didn’t earn a fraction of what players get now, but it was still a lot more than the average Joe on the street.

Plus at a very young age, you do realise it’ll be a whole lot better than working for a living

But you had to love the one who said he wanted to earn a 6-figure salary, and when the interviewer asked if he wanted to buy a big car with his first wage packet he said, no, that would be with his second one. His first one would buy his Mum and family a new house...... bless

A stairway to Heaven and a Highway to Hell give some indication of expected traffic numbers

I don't think Wilf was talking about discipline or petulance on the field of play.
I believe he meant the shear application, dedication and discipline required to stay the distance and actually become a professional footballer these days.
These young boys eat, sleep and dream of becoming footballers but through the academies nice frontage behind it there is the ever constant ruthless relentless individual analysis.
Also as these boys grow older they then get exposed to the same ruinous temptations as nearly all of us, drink, women and women and drink and for some drugs!

I watched the 1st episode last night.

I though the Palace staff were really great with the players, especially with them being so young.

Can't say I was too impressed on the emphasis some of the boys put on how much money they could earn. But then again they are just kids.

Whilst it must be great for them being at Palace, the realism is that only a very small percentage will make it, if any at all. Hopefully they are told that not making it Palace is not the end of the road, and by dropping down levels you can make your way up again.

It appeared that some would not know what to do if they failed to make it.

And even then when they sign a scholarship they must do a BTEC in Sporting Excellence and Performance (usually 1 1/2 days study our of each week). From memory there are three levels, Extended Certificate, Diploma and Extended Diploma. - the highest level gives them enough UCAS points to enter University. 'A' levels are also an option if GCSE Grades are high enough in the chosen subject although must be done with the BTEC at the same time. Successful completion of the BTEC/ and 'A' level will also give preferential access to the USA university scholarship system (so no uni fees) or Loughborough if they don't want to or are not offered a pro contract.

This post has been merged from a topic called 'The Academy ' by becky

I have not yet due to spousal resistance however will get round to it at some point. I've heard not but positives so far so looking forward to it!

Now Zaha's got a bit of green grass ahead of him here... and finds Ambrose... not a bad effort!!!!