Matthew Briggs: A Journey of Discovery - Episode 1

In 2007 Matthew Briggs, aged 16 years and 65 days, became the youngest player to play in the Premier League when he made his debut for Fulham against Middlesbrough. It's a record that he held until the penultimate match of the 2018/19 season.

He'd been regarded as one of the hottest prospects in the game - wanted by clubs like Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

His career started young, but didn’t continue on the upward curve. Further appearances in the Premier League, in European competition, for England’s Under-21 side followed but before long he was slipping down the divisions and eventually into Non-League football, where he finds himself now.

What happened?

On a journey of discovery, by speaking to his former teammates, managers and friends in the game - we aim to find out the reasons why so much promise can quickly evaporate.

Too much money too soon, bad decisions on the pitch and off it, the wrong advice, lack of mentors and role models, mental health issues, family crises and many more themes are discussed.

The documentary, released in episodes over the coming weeks, features interviews and insight from some of those who played a part in Matthew's career. The aim is for Matthew to discover where he went wrong, pass on those lessons, and at the end of it all try and climb back up the footballing ladder.

Tales From Production
In partnership with Smith & Williamson

[seancummins]

Really enjoying - if that's the right word - these films. Sobering stuff. I remember Matthew at Chesterfield and he impressed. Heard you on the radio today, and the reason he had to leave is very sad. Hope all works out for him and his family, and we see him back up the ladder soon.

[grantappleby]

I’m the same age and can remember watching at the time of his debut thinking how lucky this lad it did not pan out the way he wanted the support obviously was not there. All the best for the future Matthew for you and your family

[philhart]

Loved him at Colchester, such an exciting player on his day. Wish him nothing but the best.

[sircravenuk]

I used to be the Fulham researcher for Football Manager and asked a coach (who is still there) which youngster could make it and be top class, his answer was Matthew Briggs. He was outstanding in the youth team. Such a shame how it planned out. He is still getting paid to do a job most of us can only dream about.

[jonhoops]

This looks/sounds really interesting (heard about it on Talksport). How many episodes will there be?