Everton's youth scouting set-up is 'biggest' in the country

Everton believe they have one of the most extensive youth scouting networks in the country.

The Blues Academy have over 300 talent spotters on their books looking for the next big thing.

Everton’s Head of Academy recruitment Martin Waldron has seen the club’s network grow significantly since he joined the Blues in a full-time role in 1998.

“It’s a huge operation now and, in terms of scouts, we’re probably the biggest in the country,” Waldron said.

“Locally, we have around 235 scouts who cover the North West within an hour’s radius of here.



“Nationally, we’ve got 90 professional scouts who go around all of the professional clubs around the country and report back to us.”

Waldron, who used to manage Leighton Baines when he was at youth side Key Ways Football Club in Kirkby, added: “I joined part-time 22 years ago now and the time has flown.

“There were around 12 scouts when I first came in and I’ve managed to changed it over time.

“I quickly got a foothold in what I was doing and they let me run with it.”


By Phil Kirkbride / Liv Echo