Manchester City's U18 Premier League title-winner Dire Mebude is already looking to make a big step up next season, while his coach says there is a talented group of under-16's who are looking to replace the current group.
City had already won their U18 Northern league, and were at Southampton on Thursday to contest the national title they had won for the previous two seasons. After falling behind infront of 13,000 home fans, City responded in style with Mebude setting up Tai Sodje and then scoring a fine goal of his own to grab what would turn out to be the winner.
The triumph means City have now won a national league or cup at every age group from under-16 to under-23, with the top two age groups securing back-to-back titles. Speaking after the game, Mebude praised the character of the U18 side, and admitted he is already looking to become a regular in the under-23s side next year.
