Stephen Smith, chair of the sport and exercise psychology division at the British Psychological Society, has called for better psychological support for young footballers released from academy contracts. In a letter, he highlighted the trauma many face after dedicating their childhoods to training, only to be cut from the system.
Smith warned that some released players have turned to crime, self-harm, or suffered severe psychological distress. He described a 'postcode lottery' for aftercare, with support becoming patchier further down the football pyramid due to limited resources.
He urged the Football Association, Premier League, and English Football League to coordinate investment to help clubs expand their psychological workforce. This would ensure released academy players receive the support they need and deserve, embedded from the outset of their academy careers.
