Reserves Game Off Due To Rams Withdrawal

Rams boss Phil Brown said: "A number of our younger players - the likes of Lee Holmes, Giles Barnes, Lewin Nyatanga and Nathan Doyle - have been involved in first team, reserve, international and youth football while being expected to follow a full technical and educational programme.

"Some of these youngsters played over 60 games last season and, as a result of the various demands on their time in respect of match preparation and travelling, we are concerned they may miss out on valuable technical coaching. We have a duty of care to these young players - their welfare is of utmost importance for their development and the continued effectiveness of the Academy structure. "Our view is that we wish to focus on providing the most appropriate grade of football for our academy lads rather than forcing them into the position of helping us fulfil reserve team fixtures."

Operations director Paul Clouting said: "We would like to thank the Premier League for their support and understanding. We have withdrawn from the competition for the 2005-06 season and have the option to return next year. We recognise that a number of season ticket holders enjoy the opportunity to watch our reserves in action and we did take that into account when making this decision, but we did feel the welfare of the young lads was paramount."

City Reserve next league game is away to Fulham on Wednesday November 23rd at Motspur Park (7pm).