Head of Academy Mick Leonard has hailed the youth team’s pre-season tour to Spain as a huge success so far...
The tour, which has been arranged in conjunction with League Football Education (LFE) and subsidised by Erasmus+ funding has already provided the players with plenty of opportunities for the players to sample a different football culture and broaden their horizons both personally and professionally.
The tour has also meant the players have received expert training sessions from Spain’s top coaches, whilst having tours of some of the top stadia in the country too.
The squad have already played Levante and Vilarreal in friendlies face Valencia in their third and final friendly on Thursday before heading back to Nottingham before they kick-off their campaign on August 9.
Leonard told the Official Site: “The trip so far has been a success in terms of training hours, LFE education and finding out more about the boys on a 24/7 basis.
“The training facility is first class and a short walk from the hotel which we share with Nottingham Forest and Valencia B. The hotel is excellent with recovery facilities, gymnasium and a good selection of food.
“The LFE staff who are with us, Sarah Stonehouse and John Barton, should also get a mention as they are always on hand.
“So far we have played two games against Levante FC and Villarreal FC. We lost the first 3-0 and drew the second 1-1, but both sides are rated as one the best academy teams in Spain.
“There were many positives to take from both games as we have 13 players to select from and our opponents field two different teams in each half.
“We are sure the whole experience will benefit the lads not just for the upcoming season, but also their future careers. Overall, already it’s been a fantastic experience for us all.”
Look out for further reaction and a round-up of their final game and of the pre-season trip once the squad have landed back in the UK on the Official Site.