Wickham to Tottenham

Has the world gone mad, or is it just the Ipswich Town Board we should be sending to the local asylum?

England have just been humiliated at a World Cup. Everyone is calling for a better youth scouting system and better facilities at grass-roots level.

So what do the tabloids and Ipswich Town FC do? Tell the world that any club interested in prizing away their 17 year old, must stump up at least £10 million. And as always, Tottenham's name has been thrust into the ring.

I can't say I know too much about young Connor Wickham. But if the lad was as good as everyone (in Ipswich) is making out, surely Harry wouldn't be looking to buy the young striker and instantly loan him back to Ipswich? I mean, if he was worth £10 million, he should be knocking on the door of the first 11, right?

Even if the said amount is to be split into various part-payments, it's still too much for a player that hasn't even had a full season in the Championship, let alone the Premier League.

So many pundits keep on about the English talent in this country not being given a chance. Connor Wickham is being given a chance and an opportunity at Ipswich Town. The lad needs to learn his trade. If he was to sign for Spurs or any other Premier League side and didn't make the first 11 quickly, his career would be going nowhere fast.

Therefore, let's forget this story for the time being and allow the young talent in this country to flourish at the clubs they are currently contracted to.

_________________________________________________
Follow our rants on Twitter

Read our latest Evening Standard Blog

Have you got an iPod or mp3 player? If you love listening to audiobooks, click here....

Big Chiv: My Goals in Life - Get it now!