Academy to Champions League

Ledley King and Peter Crouch came through our Academy ranks together - now they've help take the club into the Champions League.

Ledley King and Peter Crouch came through our Academy ranks together - now they've helped take the club into the Champions League.

Club skipper Ledley and striker 'Crouchy' both joined us full-time as Trainees in July, 1997 and turned professional in July, 1998.

On Wednesday, Ledley captained the side and Crouchy scored the goal as a 1-0 win at City clinched a minimum of fourth place in the Premier League and therefore a place in the Champions League next season.

Were they dreaming of such nights back in 1997?

"At that age you are just dreaming of becoming a professional footballer and that was our goal," said Ledley.

"Crouchy went onto different clubs and made a name for himself elsewhere before coming back and it's fantastic he scored the goal at City. I was really pleased for him.

"Nights like that are very special and it's great we could share it together after being in the youth team here.

"This has been a long time coming - too long - and I'm delighted."

Crouchy added: "I'd rank this night up there with the best I've been a part of.

"I remember those Champions League nights when I was at Liverpool were so special and I can see them being just as special at White Hart Lane."