Johnny Cantor talks new contracts and importance of youth

You're never too old to fall in love. Or so the saying goes.

More and more people seem to be doing more daring and more exciting things in the latter stages of their lives. (I sometimes wonder myself though when I look in the mirror!).

In a football sphere they say players can mature like a fine wine. This week, new contracts were handed to both Gordon Greer and Bruno.

Greer, the captain is 33, and Bruno 34. The reward for the senior members of the squad appears to have divided the supporter base. The manager, Sami Hyypia, says they have both quality and experience and has highlighted their leadership on and off the pitch.

My summariser, the former Albion defender Adam Virgo, has said he believes there aren't enough leaders in the current Albion squad.

Ultimately, they will be judged on what they do on the pitch but their role can't be underestimated.

Greer has flourished in recent years, being awarded an international role with Scotland. Bruno often looks the most comfortable player on the ball.

However, are the younger players coming through? The Performance Centre in Lancing has only just got up and running, so it may be a bit early to expect instant results, but the Albion will have to produce talent that is capable of making the first-team squad in years to come.

Inevitably, young talent will be sold on at a profit, but emerging players are essential to the long-term future.

This month, the club widens the net opening an academy at Whyteleafe FC in Surrey as it tries to compete with the big boys. It is another example of how the Albion is building foundations for the future.

A more immediate concern is the recent form, but the know-how of players such as Greer and Bruno will be of paramount importance as the team battles to move away from the relegation zone. Neither may be Ian Wright, who could probably still play today, but hopefully they can aid the youngsters like Solly March, who have made the bridge from development to first-team squad.