Sheffield United academy given resounding verdict by Premier League legend as starlet gears up for key summer
Sheffield United academy given resounding verdict by Premier League legend as starlet gears up for key summer
Sheffield United’s fabled Shirecliffe academy has received a ringing endorsement from a Premier League legend, as his son faces a pivotal summer in his bid to forge his own career in the game. The Blades signed Zach Giggs, the son of former Mancjester United icon Ryan, in 2023 after he left the Red Devils.
A wing-back or full-back capable of playing on either flank and also in central defence and midfield, Giggs Jr. signed his first professional deal with United last summer and has stepped up to United’s U21s squad this season.
He made his latest appearance as United came from behind to beat Colchester United last night and is looking to finish the current season strongly ahead of a key summer which could see him placed elsewhere on loan to further his development.
Sheffield United academy given resounding verdict by Premier League legend as starlet gears up for key summer
Giggs, the former Wales player and manager, keeps a keen eye on his son’s development alongside various commitments with UEFA and Salford City, the League Two promotion-chasing club he co-owns alongside other products of the Old Trafford ‘Class of 92’.
“Yeah, he’s doing okay,” Giggs said of his son’s development, speaking to the When Saturdays Come YouTube channel. “He had a real strong start to the season, then he got injured just before Christmas. But he’s doing okay.
“He’s a first-year pro, and it's always difficult in that first year. I think next year's a big year, to see what happens pre-season and whether he goes out on loan or not. The test with all players, I think, when they’re 18, 19 and 20 years old, is how they react to men's football. But he’s done well, and I'm really proud of him.”
United’s academy record is the envy of many clubs at their level and even above, producing the likes of Kyle Walker and Harry Maguire historically and following that up with the likes of Sydie Peck, Andre Brooks and Femi Seriki who are currently in the United first-team.
Shirecliffe graduates Aaron Ramsdale and David Brooks have earned them big money in the past while the emphasis on homegrown talent is only expected to increase beyond the summer, when United lose their parachute payments and have to cut their cloth accordingly.
“I think that's a big part of joining a club,” said Giggs Sr. of United’s academy reputation. “Is there a pathway? Can you get into the first team? How do they look after their young players? And Sheffield United have been brilliant with Zach.
“He's loved every minute of it and I've been really pleased with his progress. I feel he's at the right place. Now, and especially next season when he comes back, it's time to kick on. And see how he reacts, if he goes out on loan and how he does playing men's football.”