AFC Rushden & Diamonds U18s / Malcolm Arnold Academy travel to Silverstone UTC on Friday in the next round of the English Schools Trophy.
Manager Darren Purse is looking to give the younger members of his squad a chance to step up and prove themselves.
“I’ll have a young and inexperienced squad with me again, but it’s a chance for the lads to prove themselves.
Three U16s from the school, who also play for the AFCR&D U16s academy, will be involved in the squad. It’s a chance to look at them for next season. I’d rather not have to use them so soon but needs must, with a few players out injured. It’s a good opportunity for them to prove themselves in a competitive game.
Also I have a young Polish keeper Kacper Watroba who hasn’t played a lot of football, he’ll be playing. He’s young and raw but he is a good shot stopper and there’s only one way to learn, by playing.
We’re going to go to win, of course, but I’m hoping to have all players back fit for next week.”
