Powell backs calls to re-open academy

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The protocols are in place and hopefully they will be back soon, says head coach.

Bruce Talbot

2020-11-14T07:30:00Z

Hope Powell's side face West Ham United this Sunday - with the game live on MyAlbion TV.

Head Coach Hope Powell has backed Albion's request to have their women's Dual Career Academy and Regional Talent Centres re-opened.

The first-team head coach is a keen advocate of promoting young players into her squad, but both have been closed since the start of the month because of the latest Covid-19 lockdown.

Powell points out that the same protocols that are used by the boys' academies are in place which have been allowed to stay open.

“I appreciate that we have got really good protocols in place at the club that might not be the case at some clubs. The right decision for them might have been to shut down so they didn't put any of their players at risk.

“But I believe we are in a good place and meet all the requirements. Hopefully our academy can open up again. The girls want to play and it would be a boost for their well-being if they could do so as normal.

“Quite often I invite the Academy players to train with the first team and the fact that they know they have that opportunity makes them really happy. Hopefully we will see them back training again soon.”

Albion head to West Ham in the WSL on Sunday and although midfielder Ellie Brazil is back in training following two knee operations and 12 months on the side-lines, it is too early for her return.

Powell added, “We have a friendly organised during the international break in two weeks and hopefully we will see her in action there.

“But it's great to see Ellie back on the training pitch. We need her but we also need to ensure that she is 100% ready to contribute to the team. She's not quite there yet but hopefully it won’t be too long before we see Ellie again.”