Guernsey FC Under-23 side to play in English league

Guernsey FC's development team will compete in league football for the first time in 2026-27.

The island club side's youngsters will play in the Southern Combination's Under-23 East League this season.

The Green Lions' senior side currently play in the league's Premier Division, reaching the play-off final in May.

The development team will become the latest Guernsey side to play in league football after the women's team finished seventh in their inaugural season in the Southern Region Women's Division One South.

The 16-match season will see fixtures played in midweek, limiting the impact of domestic club football in Guernsey.

Leon Meakin will manage the team alongside Jace Leaman and long-serving Guernsey FC defender Jamie Dodd.

"We want to ensure there is a clear pathway for young players coming through with aspirations of becoming regulars in the Guernsey FC first team," said Meakin.

"This development team will give those players the opportunity to train and play within our environment while continuing to develop their game in competitive football.

"It will also provide valuable opportunities for members of our senior squad to build match fitness, return from injury and continue pushing for first-team places.

"Ultimately, it strengthens the whole football pathway at Guernsey FC and provides another stepping stone for players with ambition."