Team from YCDS Academy, coached by former Nottingham Forest and England defender Gary Charles, win their league

An academy football team, coached by a former England international, has completed a landmark year by being crowned champions of their league.

YouCanDoSport Academy football team won the ECFA East Midlands Men's Regional Invitation 1 League by six points.

The team is coached by former Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa defender Gary Charles and his assistant Cameron Dobson.

The YCDS Academy football team celebrate as league champions

They played 12 matches – winning ten, one draw and losing only once, scoring 45 goals while conceding only ten.

A YCDS spokesman said: “Gary Charles, a former England international, brings a wealth of experience from his professional playing days with top clubs such as Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa. His insight into the game and ability to mentor young players have been instrumental in shaping the team's success.

“With his tactical acumen and hands-on coaching style, Cameron Dobson complements Charles perfectly, ensuring every player receives the guidance and support needed to excel.

“Together, they create a positive and motivating environment that drives the team to achieve their best on and off the field.”

Cameron Dobson (Assistant Coach), Isaac Sills (Captain), Gary Charles (Head Coach).

The squad was made up of Kyle Pevler, Ricardo Pereira, Isaac Sills (Captain), Thomas Compson Woolfit, Charlie Anderson, Kaden Scott, Freddie Weeks, Alfie Wilkinson, Max Oldfield, Kaeden Bennison, Kostas Jatulis, Ryan Roberts, Malik Cardosa, James Johnson, Carlton Price, Kalvin Osborne, Stephen Edwards, Harry Lancaster, and Jack Palmer.

The standout goal scorers for the season were Kalvin Osborne, Carlton Price, and Kaden Scott.