October 12 2011

Paddy McCarthy

Paddy McCarthy reckons Crystal Palace's young guns can become Champions League super stars.

Academy products Jon Williams, Wilfried Zaha, Sean Scannell and Nathaniel Clyne were singled out for special praise by the Palace skipper.

He said: "You have got a fantastic bunch of young lads. With all due respect, I think if they keep on going like they are, I think they will be playing Champions League football.

"If they keep working hard on their game, listen to the people at this club in and around them and put the work in, it won't be long before these lads - Jonathan Williams, Wilfried Zaha, Sean Scannell, Nathaniel Clyne - are playing Champions League football.

"But first and foremost they have to perform week in, week out for Crystal Palace and maybe, realistically, use the club as a stepping stone. A lot of players have done that in the past, but I think that will benefit Crystal Palace in the long run."

He added: "I'm comfortable with what we have in the changing room, with the young lads - I think if you tried to go out and buy those sorts of players, you would be spending millions of pounds.

"It is fantastic for the club to keep producing these kids. They are young lads with Crystal Palace in their blood as well, so they want do well not just as individuals but for the club they grew up supporting. It all bodes well for a bright future for the club."