How clubs make professionals: Bright reveals tips for success

As the Academy continues to take shape, a new generation of Palace players will be given the best opportunity to make it to the top-level

But reaching the pinnacle and playing for the first-team isn’t easy. Eagles legend Mark Bright is part of Palace TV's coverage of the U23s, watched FREE by Palace Members; he knows how hard it can be, but thinks the new development will give young players their best shot.

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“This area will always produce players,” says Bright. “Ten years ago, Steve [Parish] wanted to improve the Academy, but to see it go up slowly like it’s doing and to actually go across and watch.

“I was there one evening and I was watching the pre-Academy – or U7s – training on…