Scudamore: England lagging behind

Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has admitted the English top flight is "lagging behind" Germany's Bundesliga when it comes to youth development, but still believes his own is the more attractive league for players.


Scudamore told the Bild am Sonntag newspaper he believes Germany's recent investment in youth is exemplary and, while saying England is "catching up", he added more needed to be done to follow the Bundesliga's example.

"Germany has done a great deal for the development of young players since 2001 and we're still lagging behind," Scudamore said.

"The quote from (Germany coach Joachim) Low that winning the World Cup title was only made possible by the reform of German football and hard work is something we in England have got to remember."

German football reacted to a disappointing showing at Euro 2000 by strengthening links between clubs and the national association with all pulling in the same direction in the nurturing of young, talented players.

Philipp Lahm and Bastian Schweinsteiger were the first off the production line and the likes of Marco Reus, Andre Schurrle, Mario Gotze and Toni Kroos are the latest examples.

All have contributed to raising the profile of the Bundesliga, even though Scudamore insists the Premier League is the most attractive league in Europe.

"We've simply got more clubs who have greater financial potential to compete with the biggest European teams when it comes to buying the best talent," he said.

"Our clubs are highly attractive for these players."

Scudamore nevertheless admitted there are some players in the Bundesliga he would not mind seeing in the Premier League.

"I don't think it would be right to mention any names, but all I can say is that there are some wonderful players in the Bundesliga who would also shine here," he said.