大象传媒

The Football Factories

Football clubs stand accused of ignoring the welfare of children as they make millions of pounds from dealing in child players. With nearly 10,000 children attending football academies run by all the major clubs, the pressures on the country's youngest players are pushing some to breaking point, a Five Live investigation has found.

Clubs are relying on their academies to produce star players who will bring in much needed income, but reporter Chris Green talks to children who, at the age of 12, have been left exhausted by non-stop training and playing. Others have been left in tears during harsh coaching sessions.

Senior Football Association figures tell the programme that much needed reform of the academy system is being blocked by the top football leagues.