The Premier League's New Scouting Ground: Why EFL Academies Are Suddenly in Fashion The English Football League (EFL) has long been a feeder system for Premier League clubs, producing talented youngsters who often excel at the top level.
Recent trends suggest that top flight teams are increasingly scouring EFL and Scottish academies for players before they've broken into senior football.
This summer's recruitment drive saw 14 young players join Premier League development squads from lower divisions, matching last season's total.