Declan is prone to silly comments and a sense of superiority.
That been said, his programme is undoubtedly the shining light on NZ player development. The NIX have had higher profile transfers in Libby and Sapreet, but Ole is pumping out quality players on a regular basis.
The big question now, is whose next?
How many are actually kicking on and doing well above Euro pub/reserve/youth level?
Wyners had a few do well, the Nix too along with a couple of others. I don't necessarily think Declan's lot are any better then other academies past or present, just that they are getting youth run-outs at middling Euro clubs.
Not sure how long you have lived in the UK, but feel you are out of touch with what Ole are achieving.
Thomas & Boyd speak for themselves
Pjinaker at the 5th best team in Portugal. Already made a match day squad. Been there a few weeks
Just, Wilkins & now McCowatt in Danish 2nd tier at current league leaders Helsingor. An ambitious club who look like challenging for promotion this season to the Danish top flight..
Garbett getting minutes in Swedish top tier. Admittedly his club struggling.
Conroy in Swedish 3rd tier. But's he's only 19.
Stamenic. From Mrs Mils reports already starring at his club's U19 team. He's been in Denmark a matter of weeks. He's only 18. Could well be in the first team at Copenhagen (recent Europa League quarter finalists) before season end. Sounds a real talent.
Parker-Price is at a Swedish 5th tier club (Torslanda). But it's probably just a start, before he goes elsewhere. It's been tipped he may make the Euro AWs if a team is actually announced. Pjinaker started in Europe at Torslanda
Don't forget all the above crew bar Thomas & Boyd are very young. I'm guessing all 18-21 yrs old. Who knows where they will end up, it's very early on for all of them.
You have a couple of guys with MLS contracts as well (Collier & Adams). Collier looks to be doing well at Chicago Fire. No doubt I've missed someone, and yeah I've only mentioned male footballers.
Then you have the next crop coming through at Western Suburbs, who currently lead the Central League. Both Weenix and Ole should feel proud of the talent they are producing now, and both will have huge roles to play with future of NZ football.
And yeah recommend this as a listen. Fascinating in many ways.