Brentford Under-18s head coach Gary McDermott's end-of-season review
Brentford Under-18s head coach Gary McDermott's end-of-season review Brentford Under-18s head coach Gary McDermott reflects on his first season in charge of the age group and looks ahead to the exciting prospect of facing Category One opposition next season. McDermott took charge of the U18s in the summer of 2025, having joined the club eight months before as head coach for the U13/14s. In his first season in charge of the young Bees, McDermott oversaw the side’s fourth-place finish in the U18 Professional Development League.
"It's been positive working with a new staff group. That’s helped the boys as we all challenge each other," he explained. "That's been evident with the number of players that have played across age groups into the B team and beyond.
"I’m proud for the lads and their families, but also proud for the staff. People don't always see the late nights, the constant reviewing of clips sitting down with players. " There has been real proof of a flourishing pathway in the academy this season with scholars Michel Boni and Beau Redknapp playing for the B team regularly.
Luka Bentt also made his professional debut for the club, coming off the bench against Macclesfield in the FA Cup . "In pre-season, Luka was with us as a second-year scholar, and he’s gone on to make his first-team debut. That’s an incredible achievement," said McDermott.
"Michel was in good form, worked hard and deserved his opportunity to test himself with the B team, which he's grabbed with hands and feet. "One thing we've certainly got here is an amazing group of staff that get on and can challenge in the right way. Everyone knows that there's no ego, it's all about helping players get better.
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