Who uses academy players most in Premier League - and does it matter?

 

Even in a season full of highs for Arsenal supporters, Max Dowman's goal against Everton stands out.

Not simply because it clinched a crucial win in a tense title race, or because it broke a 21-year Premier League record, but because of who scored it. A home-grown player.

The record Dowman broke had been held by James Vaughan.

"I went through it myself," the former Everton forward told BBC Sport. "You miss out on what other lads your age are doing - going out, going to parties. You're going to bed early.

"Now I'm a parent, I see it differently. My son's in an academy and you realise the sacrifice. Night after night, you're there in the cold, supporting them.

"Everyone around them - coaches, families - there's so much that goes into it. That's the side people don't see. There are a lot of hard yards from a lot of people."

In the modern game, that connection between pitch and stands feels rarer than ever. When it does appear, supporters embrace it. "He's one of our own" now echoes around grounds for players who have come through the system.

Academy success can be transformative. But in today's landscape, it can also serve a more pragmatic purpose - helping balance the books.

In the era of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), home-grown players carry huge value. They represent pure profit, meaning some clubs choose to sever that connection and cash in.

BBC Sport examines how Premier League clubs are using their youth system and what is means for rising stars.

Published By: Aigbe Vincent Efam.