The former boss of youth development at the Premier League claims an overhaul of the system is needed if England are to challenge on the world stage. Huw Jennings is critical of the current youth system, which is presided over by three bodies - the Premier League, the Football League and the Football Association.

He has called for an independent, single entity to assume responsibility for player development.

"In football regulation, three is a crowd," Jennings, who is now academy director at Fulham, told the Daily Telegraph.

"We need to take youth development away from the three organisations. Of course the FA and the Premier League should be represented but if you appoint separate governance you have a better chance of making progress.

"At the moment we haven't got the concerted campaign and joined up thinking to make the radical change that is needed.

"Let's get rid of the difficulties, differences and politics and have one single body for the governance of youth development with the power to license and reward."