Rotherham United Academy Manager Richard Hairyes was full of praise for everyone involved in the youth set-up, following their return to full-time training.
The young gun’s 2019/20 campaign was cut short following the curtailment of the league and cup competitions as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Millers finished 2nd in the EFL Youth Alliance standings, as well as reaching the final of the EFL Youth Alliance Cup, and Hairyes insists it was a “fantastic campaign.”
“The Under-18s season came to an abrupt end but it’s worth noting the fantastic campaign that they had finishing runners-up in the league and reaching the regional cup final, which sadly didn’t take place,” Hairyes told Rotherham’s New Yorker.
“It’s been a wonderful effort from all of the staff at the football club to ensure that the players have had enhanced programs since the shut down in March and it’s been testament to all the players who have worked tirelessly and come back in fantastic condition.
“Our Head of Academy Sports Science and Medical (Jess Shaw) is pleased with how well players throughout the academy have adapted to the changes that have been put in place since returning.
“The energy levels and commitment since returning is a credit to the hard work that all players have put in during the lockdown from the Under-18s right through to the Under-9s.
“The squad have also produced another two professional players with Jacob Gratton and Jake Hull both been rewarded with professional contracts which is testament to all the staff that are involved with this group, in particular John Williams and Ciaran Toner.”