Odd though that having walked to the title and now going up a level we decimate the U18’s squad to the extent that they have to raid the U16’s to make up the numbers.
Common practice. The league is won and playing men's football is seen as stepping stone to earning a pro contract. They will all come together this Saturday though, for the semi-final of the Alliance Cup. Jon Brady is taking that very seriously and made sure the loans deals included a release clause for this competition.
Also you want to blood the U16s now so they know what they are in for next season. It's invaluable experience.