While the FA and Barclays Premiership clubs squabble over who should control youth development in England, talent still manages to make its way through the system. It can be unmissable, such as Theo Walcott, or it can arrive through the most unlikely routes.

Take Fabrice Muamba, who, if all goes to plan, would surely become the most exotically named England player in history. On the books at Arsenal, although at present on loan to Birmingham City, the destructive midfield player is captain of England Under-19 and is increasingly demanding attention. Only 18, Muamba has been a significant reason for the Midlands club’s rise up the Coca-Cola Championship. .............