More Youngsters Drafted In

Last updated : 03 January 2009 By Covsupport News Service
Coventry City manager Chris Coleman has drafted in Ashley Cain and Shaun Fraser into the first team squad to face Kidderminster Harriers today.

FA Cup rules dictate that seven substitutes can be named and the duo, who have both done very well for City's U18's this season, have been added to make up the numbers of those out with injury or suspended.

Coventry City manager Chris Coleman, however, remains hesitant about throwing in youngsters, saying to the CT: "You can name seven subs in this competition but we have a problem at the back with Elliott Ward who is not going to be fit so that leaves Stephen Wright, Ben Turner and Marcus Hall. "We don't have Guilluame Beuzelin so Aron Gunnarsson will have to play in midfield so we need someone to play at the back."

Despite, not being a regular U18's match attender like his predecessor, Coleman, whose method is inviting the best young players to train with the first team, said that he has seen enough in training and reserve matches to know the up and coming players.

"I have seen enough of the young boys to know what they are about," he added. "I have said before you have to be careful with the kids whether they are ready or not. Ideally, we would not have given Adam Walker the game against Sheffield Wednesday because it is a bit early for him but our hands were forced and he came on and acquitted himself very well.


Adam Walker (third right)

"Playing Kidderminster in the Cup is a different game and different pressure, especially at home, so if I do choose to play one of the young boys we are going to be careful.

"It won't be easy for them. It is a tough game and it will be a baptism of fire but sometimes that can put hairs on your chest and quicken up your progress as a young player. I suppose if you are good enough you are old enough but with the squad we have, we may not have a choice."