George Long adds weight to praise for Sheffield United academy

Sheffield United Academy graduate George Long

The Blades talent conveyor belt at Shirecliffe was credited last week by the Elite Player Performance Plan under which data was released which placed the Academy as the 15th best in the country and the fifth best outside in the Football League.

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Goalkeeper Long came through the system and has nailed down a regular place in the first team this season under Nigel Adkins to become the latest in what is a long line of Academy successes.

And the 22 year old said the facility is “something to be proud of and appreciate.”

Long told the club’s website: “The facility itself is first-class, come rain or shine you can play your football with top quality surfaces indoor and outdoor

“The coaching structure is also impressive; staff are brought in from across the country, not just locally, so you really are getting the chance to work with some top professionals.”