City’s Premier League 2 team face Sunderland on Friday night and after a 3-3 draw at Leicester on Monday, they have the chance to pile the pressure on leaders Everton.
Although that is very real motivation for Simon Davies’ side, Oliver knows what the long term goals of everyone at the academy are.
He said: “Seeing Tosin [Adarabioyo] playing for the first team makes me pleased because I know how hard he has worked for it and he’s developed really well.
“As an academy player it’s encouraging for all of us because he’s an example of the path we want to follow and if we keep working hard then we may get our chance in future.
“My rotation will give me different aspects to my game. At centre-back, it’s my job to hold position so I don’t do as much running but I will be passing a lot in order to start attacks. At full-back I’m more physically challenged, getting up and down the line more throughout a match.
“It’s good for me because if the manager needs me to play a different position, I’ll play any position so it just gives me a wider knowledge of the game.”
Want to keep up with the latest EDS and academy news? Follow the official Twitter account, @ManCityAcademy.
Chasing titles and lifting silverware helps prove the ability of young footballers but Oliver insists it isn’t necessarily the most important thing.
He said: “A successful season would mean to win every competition that we’re in while playing the right way.
“You always have to compete and physically perform while playing technically well and staying injury free, that’s important. Managing your body to eat, sleep and work properly is a challenge we all need to rise to.”
Manchester City welcome Sunderland to the Academy Stadium in the Premier League 2 on Friday 3 February. Head to the ticket office for more information on how you can support our future at home matches.
