Darlington FC director of youth Paul Thomas says that there are more exciting youngsters to come after four lads played against Motherwell on Sunday afternoon.

Josh Coburn, Kieron Dunn, Ciaran Banks and Lewis Alderson, who all came on as subs in the second half,  have all been playing for the club’s youth teams, and Thomas believes that they will continue to make an impact – with more poised to follow them into the first team picture.

“There are several more youngsters in the youth squad who are capable of following those four into the first team squad,” he said.

“They’re not quite ready yet, they’re still learning, but I’m sure they will be in a few months’ time.

“I must admit I was a bit nervous before the game for the four lads, because I didn’t know how they were going to do, but they all did well.

“Technically, they’re up for the first team, although physically they’re not. That’s something which will develop as they grow older. Mentally they were strong and coped with the occasion, and overall they got a taste of what it’s like at the top level.

“I was delighted for everyone in the youth set up who have helped them reach the first team.

“Forward Josh Coburn was with Sunderland until four months ago, and he came to us to finish his development. He was low on confidence, but now we’ve helped him to build it up again. He’s still at school, and has been playing for our Under 16s.

[caption id="attachment_43573" align="alignnone" width="300"] Josh Coburn[/caption]

“Kieron Dunn, a right winger,  has been with us for two years, and is in our Under 17s. He has great potential.

[caption id="attachment_43574" align="alignnone" width="240"] Kieron Dunn[/caption]

“Ciaran Banks is a 16 year old left back and has just left school. He came to us from Middlesbrough in January, and we see him more as a centre half than a left back.

“Lewis Alderson is another 16 year old, who is a right back. He’s from the town, and has been with us for two years. Again, we can see his potential.”

[caption id="attachment_43575" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lewis Alderson[/caption]

Manager Tommy Wright has said on several occasions that he is prepared to give youth a chance, and Thomas said; “Tommy is very keen on including youngsters, and we’re happy to provide them with the opportunity.”