Cardiff City’s youth team achieved a remarkable feat under the management of Craig Bellamy by winning the Professional Development League South in the 2018/19 season. Despite falling short in the final against Sheffield Wednesday, the young talents showcased their potential by clinching the southern division title. Let’s take a closer look at the players who played a crucial role in that successful campaign and where they are now.
Jordan Duffey served as the back-up goalkeeper, now playing for Saltash United in Cornwall. George Ratcliffe, the first-choice goalkeeper, currently represents Connah’s Quay after leaving Cardiff without a first-team appearance. Full-back Jac Davies moved to Cardiff Met and then Caerau Ely in the Cymru South league. Another full-back, Connor Davies, journeyed from Penybont FC to Merthyr Town and eventually settled at Cwmbach in 2023. Midfielder Ryan Kavanagh now plays for Barry Town United in the Cymru Premier after leaving Cardiff last summer.
Centre-back Ben Margetson, son of Martyn Margetson, transitioned from Cardiff to Swansea City, then played for Bromley, Kidderminster, and now represents Pontypridd United. Taylor Jones, a versatile defender, moved to Llanelli after spells with Cambrian & Clydach. Defender Trystan Jones ventured from Haverfordwest County to Carmarthen Town. Left-back Joel Bagan is now a prominent figure in Cardiff City’s first team, with loan spells in Belgium under his belt.
Midfielder Keenan Patten transferred from Barry to Newport County, where he has made three appearances in League Two. Winger Ntazana Mayembe, once a promising talent, now plays for Garw after stints with Goytre United. Forward Isaak Davies has faced injury setbacks but boasts 49 City appearances, including a loan spell at KV Kortrijk. Midfielder Sam Bowen captained the youth team and featured for Newport and Solihull Moors after his time at Cardiff.
Forward Dan Griffiths, also a top scorer, now plays for Pontypridd in the Cymru Premier. Winger Cian Ashford has impressed with contributions to the first team, while midfielder Eli King navigates loans to enhance his skills. Striker Siyabonga Ligendza, despite being released in 2022, continues to showcase his talent across various clubs. Harry Pinchard, a crucial midfielder, thrived at Hereford FC post-Cardiff.
Rubin Colwill, a Wales international, has progressed significantly since his days at Cardiff. Sion Spence, a talented winger, has experienced multiple loan spells, including his current stint at Bristol Rovers. These former youth team players continue to make strides in their professional football careers, showcasing the impact of their time under Bellamy’s guidance at Cardiff City.