Saka, Eze and Reece James shaped by grassroots coaches who reunite as England chase World Cup glory

The men who first coached Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Reece James have reunited in Wimbledon as England prepare for their World Cup campaign, gathering with local youngsters to reflect on the grassroots journeys that helped shape three of the squad’s key players.

Colin Nixon, who first worked with Saka at Greenford Celtic, was joined by Nigel James — Reece James’s father and a qualified coach — and Paul Hall, who coached Eze during his youth spell at QPR. The three took part in a community training session alongside aspiring coach Samuel Park, discussing how early coaching environments can determine whether young players fulfil their potential.

“Bukayo always had an incredible talent, but what really made him stand out was his positive and hard-working approach to the game,” Nixon said. “One of the important roles a coach plays is to help young people develop the confidence to believe in themselves so they can unlock their full potential. Watching Bukayo represent his country is incredibly rewarding.”

Nigel James reflected on the broader impact coaching can have beyond football. “Coaches are integral to creating the right environment for each individual to grow and thrive — whether that means representing their country or contributing positively to society. Watching Reece and Lauren play for England is a proud moment for everyone who was part of his journey.”

Hall pointed to the non-linear nature of Eze’s development as a lesson for coaches working with young players. “Eberechi’s story is a reminder that every player’s pathway is different. There were challenges and setbacks along the way, but he never stopped believing in himself. One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching is helping young people develop core skills like resilience and confidence.”

The event was organised as part of the Chase football coaching programme, which provides funded access to introductory coaching qualifications and professional coaching bursaries for people where cost is a barrier across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Since launching, the programme has helped fund 7,000 grassroots and professional coaching qualifications, with 4,500 coaches having already completed theirs.

Park, who is benefiting from the programme as he pursues his own coaching career, said the session had reinforced his ambitions. “Listening to the coaches behind some of England’s biggest stars has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Hearing about their journeys really brings home the early impact a coach has in shaping the players and the people they become.”