Ask Garth Lagerwey: Process of loaning a player

A: It starts with identifying a player internally – typically someone younger – who needs an opportunity to further his development by playing in matches. Once you’ve identified the player, you source clubs who have a need at that position and that ideally have a good coach, a good system, a good organization, etc. If you’re able to get the player out on loan, I have typically seen players benefit greatly from that opportunity because the playing time has given them a chance to develop and overcome adversity while being out out of their comfort zone.