Leicester City: When You're Smiling Leicester City: When You're Smiling

A Leicestershire Derby in the FA Youth Cup

Oct 28, 2026 · 26m

Summary

Host Jack Rafferty interviews Leicester City U18s coach Matt Raines and Anstey Nomads U18s coach Brad Deig ahead of their FA Youth Cup clash. The conversation covers the excitement of a local derby, the strong academy pathway at Leicester City, and Anstey’s impressive qualifying run. Both coaches discuss the unique atmosphere of the match and the importance of youth development in their respective clubs.

Topics discussed

Sponsorship ads for Whole Foods and Claude AI Episode intro and FA Youth Cup draw Introduction of Leicester City U18 coach Matt Raines Matt Raines discusses his new role and settling in Reflections on 10 years at the club and academy progress Pride in academy players breaking into the first team Silver lining of relegation: more opportunities for youth Pride in academy history and players playing elsewhere The Seagrave academy facility and its advantages Importance of being in the same building as the first team Excitement for the FA Youth Cup and local rivalry Respect for Anstey Nomads' qualifying run Managing pressure and the 'pantomime villain' narrative Opportunity for fans to see future stars Closing remarks and sponsor ads Introduction of Anstey Nomads coach Brad Deig Anstey's journey through the qualifying rounds Growth of Anstey's youth program and new facilities Playing a year up and the challenge of the age gap Managing players released by Leicester City Mentality and connections between the two clubs Consolation prize for the missed senior derby Managing expectations and pressure on the underdogs Russell Martin's interest in the academy and match Preview of next episode with Matty Fryer Closing sponsor ads for Claude and Wise
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