During pre-season, our Under-18s have displayed a mixture of ages, combining incoming first-year scholars, some current Under-16s players and those who already have experience at this level of youth football. That means this year's Under-18s group is made up of younger players who are focusing on developing their mentality and physical ability under Hassan Sulaiman.

However, the head coach is excited for the new challenges ahead and already sees strengths in his youthful side. He is impressed not only with the mindset of the squad, but also with how well the team has clicked together during their summer preparations.

'We had a real mix within our squad during pre-season,' Sulaiman begins. 'Our sessions have included a large group of Under-16s, the current Under-18s and even some of the younger Under-21s players. It’s been a diverse range of ages throughout.'

Sulaiman noted the positives of having a mixture of age groups during pre-season training, believing it encouraged and helped mentally develop the younger boys, while inspiring them to work harder to reach the next level.

‘Although it has been challenging for some of the younger players stepping up to a more physical and intense style of play, it has given them an opportunity to experience the next stage.

‘The boys need to understand that Under-18s football is not just about being in an older team, they must earn their right to perform at that level. It is much more difficult and they need to be ready both physically and mentally.

'Everyone wants to play Under-18s football, but the question is: do they have what it takes?'

Sulaiman refers to the ‘mentality’ that an Under-18s player must have, emphasising its importance. When asked what that entails and how it impacts performance on the pitch, he provided further details.

‘When I speak about the importance of holding a mature mindset, I mean the boys need to give their all, whether in training or during a match.

‘They need to have football intelligence and make smart decisions. They need to understand and feel the game in every single detail.

‘That’s why I believe it’s been great having some of the older boys within the group. They have that mindset already and it does rub off on the younger ones.

‘Pre-season is a great experience to give young players an opportunity to play and get minutes in. It’s positive to see them be confident and grab that opportunity when they can.’

Looking back at Sulaiman's success from the previous campaign, when he led his team to the Under-18 Premier League southern title, he hopes that achievement will further inspire his young players going forward.

'When you display winning behaviours, they have a positive impact on others. Naturally, the boys in this year's squad will aim to achieve as much as the squad did last season, if not more.

'This drives the players to work hard and strive to be the best versions of themselves. The goal is to achieve even greater success, but we must not overlook the hard work required to win and reach the finals.

'We must focus on putting in the effort, and then everything else will follow as a result.'