‘I was fortunate to have a career in football that lasted 20 years When I look back though I had an opportunity to complete my studies in higher education at the same time but didn’t It scares me to think that I may have got an injury early in that career and not been able to carry on,I would not have had the back up of an education and the discipline that would have brought me to structure another career moving forward or atleast the option of something to fall back on’ – Brian Deane
Brian’s professional career spans 20 years playing for Sheffield Utd, Leeds Utd, West Ham Utd, Middlesbrough, Leicester City, Sunderland and Benfica.
The Goal of the IAFE is to provide young players the opportunity to continue their development as footballers in a full time environment whilst attaining a top education over a three year period. We are looking for talented players with a desire to improve themselves both on and off the field. 
We believe that it is often too early to make the break into professional football at 18 and many players need more training and education. In addition to this the importance of a well rounded education and career pathways is essential so that the players have as many options for their future.
