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SPFL clubs meet in St Andrews to discuss youth player development

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 5:07 AM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

SPFL clubs meet in St Andrews to discuss youth player development
Summary

All 42 SPFL clubs are scheduled to gather in St Andrews on Friday for a forum regarding the future of youth development in Scotland. The event follows over 15 years of discussions and reviews aimed at increasing the number of home-grown players reaching the elite level. Current statistics show a decline in Scottish-born players starting Premiership matches, falling from 53% in 2016 to 28% this season. Craig Mulholland, the Scottish FA's chief football officer, will lead the forum to address concerns regarding blocked pathways and the departure of young talent to English clubs. The meeting seeks a sustainable strategy to improve local player progression after previous attempts failed to achieve long-term change. This session aims to align clubs on a unified approach to integrating academy talent into first-team squads.

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Key Details
  • •SPFL clubs convene in St Andrews on Friday for a strategic forum.
  • •Craig Mulholland is leading the development strategy discussions.
  • •Premiership starts for Scottish-born players declined from 53% to 28% since 2016.
  • •Increasing numbers of teenage prospects have relocated to English clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool.
  • •Brexit restrictions have contributed to English clubs targeting Scottish academy talent.
Latest Updates
  • 5:07 AMBBC Football — Will Scottish football finally agree on how to fix youth development?
  • 9:58 PMYahoo Sports — Will Scottish football finally agree on how to fix youth development?
What they're saying
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For more than 15 years, Scottish football has been asking itself what it could be doing better - now it's preparing for a forum on the future of the game.

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For more than 15 years, Scottish football has been asking itself what it could be doing better - now it's preparing for a forum on the future of the game.

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