Lachlan Brook Advocates for Youth Focus in A-League

Former teen prodigy Lachlan Brook has returned to the A-League, signing with Auckland FC and advocating for a greater emphasis on youth development within the competition. Brook, who made his senior debut with Adelaide United at just 16, believes that the recent trend of A-League teams turning to younger players is beneficial for the league’s future.

Over the past few seasons, A-League clubs have increasingly relied on young talent, both as a cost-saving measure and due to the rising performance levels of these players. Brook’s own journey reflects this shift; after a promising start at Adelaide, where he played 29 matches and won the club’s Youth Player of the Year for the 2017/18 season, he embarked on an overseas career. His stint included a three-year contract with Brentford in the English Championship, a loan to Crew Alexandra, a return to the A-League with Western Sydney Wanderers, and a challenging experience in Major League Soccer with Real Salt Lake.

Now back in the A-League, Brook is focused on securing a position in the Socceroos squad for the upcoming Football World Cup. “When you’re not playing games and you’re living far from home, it’s a big sacrifice to be away, when you’re not doing what you love,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of being close to family during this critical stage of his career.

Brook last played in the A-League during the 2023/24 season. Reflecting on the league’s evolution, he observed that the roster dynamics have changed significantly, with a noticeable influx of younger players. “There’s a lot of younger players coming through, which is obviously really good for our game,” he noted. He pointed out that clubs are beginning to prioritize the potential of motivated young players over older, less driven imports. “Clubs are starting to realise that you’re going to get more out of a young player that’s motivated to do well than maybe someone older.”

He acknowledged the growing trend of young Australian and New Zealand players moving overseas, which he believes enhances the reputation of football in the region. “For the brand of New Zealand and Australian football, that’s huge… and obviously for our national teams as well, that’s only going to help in getting our name out there.”

Despite being only 24, Brook humorously remarked that he feels “really old” compared to the emerging talent. “These players are really good and they’ve got a lot of support around them to get themselves better as well,” he said, praising the developmental model clubs are adopting to nurture young talent.

As he joins a refreshed Auckland FC squad for their second season in the A-League, Brook is determined to secure a starting position. “I don’t go anywhere without wanting to start, but obviously, there are really good players here and healthy competition is always good,” he said, expressing his commitment to contribute positively to the team.

Auckland FC’s coach, Steve Corica, has indicated that Brook will play either as a winger or a No. 10, highlighting the importance of competition within the squad. “We want players that want to start all the time,” Corica stated, emphasizing the need for a fresh approach and continued improvement following last season’s performance. He also mentioned that the club is close to signing a new striker, further intensifying the competition for starting spots.

As the A-League prepares for another exciting season, the focus on youth could reshape the landscape of Australian football, potentially elevating the national team’s prospects on the world stage.