Man City news: Kian Noble on FA Youth Cup pursuit

Manchester City academy player Kian Noble says “it would be brilliant” to win the FA Youth Cup for the second consecutive season, as he prepares for Thursday’s semi-final against Watford.

Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester’s Mike Minay, Noble said: “Everyone knows how prestigious the tournament is, if we can win it for the second time it would be brilliant.

“It was our goal for the start of the season along with the league, it’d be a challenge but what an achievement it would be.

“I really think it’s the biggest honour, the most prestigious honour. Everyone knows how big it is and how many good players have won the trophy – that’s our real aim. Make sure we get past Watford and then it’s onto the final.”

The 18-year-old believes City is the ideal place for youngsters to learn their trade, and said: “It’s the best club in the world to be at – how they approach everything.

“The amount of challenges and things set to keep improving, the academy director is brilliant at that. He wants us to strive every day to become the best version of ourselves.

“Does that mean at City? Not for all of us, it won’t be, but certainly there’s a goal and everyone can achieve that – the club and management staff are brilliant at that. People don’t notice it and think there’s a clear path, but there truly is a true structure and pathway for you.”

One of Noble’s coaches at the club is two-time Premier League winner Kolo Toure, and he says the Ivorian is “a brilliant” person to learn from.

“He’s won everything, he’s great – he works on the individual side, he was a top defender,” added Noble. “I think ‘what little nuances of the game can I get from him? What has he learnt that can help me?’

“That sort of stuff has been great, he’s been great for my development.

“The intensity and energy he brings to every game, he’s won the Premier League, but he’s still shouting and getting the energy up every game, he’s brilliant. His depth and knowledge of the game working under great managers, it’s been brilliant to soak up that information.”

Listen to the full interview on BBC Sounds