Richard Stevens aiming to develop West Brom talent

The Baggies began a rigorous search for a new academy manager back in June when it was announced Mark Harrison was leaving to join Villa.

And last month it was revealed Stevens had landed the prestigious role following 13 successful seasons at Coventry City.

During his time with the Sky Blues, the coach helped 54 players make their full debuts after coming through the academy ranks.

He also played a key role in the development of England internationals James Maddison and Callum Wilson.

Now, though, his aim is to strengthen an Albion academy that is already an immense source of pride for supporters.

“The appeal of this job is simple,” Stevens said.

“For the past 10 years I have watched West Brom grow as an academy.

“They were pioneers 10 years ago in terms of their structure, their DNA and the work they have been doing.

“And I have been on the receiving end working at another local football club.

“Leaving Coventry was a tough decision emotionally, but it was an easy decision when it comes to what I believe I can bring to this football club.

“This club is renowned for success locally, nationally and internationally when it comes to developing players.

“It is a club intent on producing its own footballers.

“It has a commitment to produce players through it’s academy and give them everything they need to help dreams become reality.”

Romaine Sawyers, Nathan Ferguson, Rekeem Harper, Sam Field and Saido Berahino are just some of the stars who Albion have produced in recent years.

But they have also seen a number of talented players depart before impacting the first team.

Tyler Roberts left for Leeds without starting a game, while recently youngsters Louie Barry and Morgan Rogers opted to continue their footballing education with Barcelona and Man City respectively. And Stevens doesn’t want talent like that leaving the club in the future.

“There are two key parts to my role,” he continued. “We need to get young boys from the academy into the first-team because the supporters have a different relationship with them.

“They have that bond when the player has come through the club’s foundation.

“Fans love one of their own, as the song goes.

“Nathan (Ferguson) for example this year. I have seen Nathan over the years, and it is wonderful to see him achieve what he has achieved.

“Kyle (Edwards) has played several games as well. Our job is to make sure that happens more often.

“When you are at the top of the Championship and fighting to get out of the division, the stakes get higher.

“The better you do, the harder it is to break in.

“But our job is to make sure boys are equipped for that.

“It can happen, Nathan and Kyle are proving it can happen.

“I know recently there are a couple of boys who have left the academy to go on to other things.

“Unfortunately that is the way of the world, the so-called bigger clubs try and take these lads.

“We have to protect against that by making sure the things West Bromwich Albion provide are right for the talented boys at the football club.”