Inspired by Matt Busby, Alex Ferguson overhauled the ineffective youth system that he inherited in 1986. Within six years, his newly improved scouting and coaching network had an FA Youth Cup triumph. This victorious Youth team of 1992 emulated the Babes when several of its players were promoted to the first team and became household names. In 1996, Manchester United's League and FA Cup Double-winning side included six players aged 22 or under.

A professional football club isn't about just one side competing for honours in the public eye. Behind the first team, there are several other sides. They are there to prepare players, both young and experienced, for the demands of senior football. For the developing youngster, the Reserve team is the penultimate rung on a ladder, bridging the gap between youth and senior levels. For older players, it can provide invaluable match practice as they recuperate from injury.

In daily training sessions, Reserve team coach Jim Ryan can have as many as 20 players to organize. Most of them are aged between 18 and 20 and are in either their first or second year as professional players. The main aim in training is to build on their two-year youth apprenticeships. While employing his own coaching methods, Jim encourages the Reserves to play in the same way as the first team. This familiarity with style and tactics makes the Reserve player's transition to senior level all the more comfortable. Links with foreign football clubs provides valuable experience overseas for some players, such as Danny Higginbotham, who played for Royal Antwerp in Belgium in 1998/99.