Andy Cook departure opens up big chance for Mansfield Town youngsters Jimmy Knowles and Jordan Graham

The departure of Andy Cook on loan to Tranmere has opened up a huge opportunity to youngsters Jimmy Knowles and Jordan Graham to force their way into the first team picture.

Knowles scored the winner in yesterday's 1-0 home Central League reserve win over Walsall and has been a regular on the bench.

Graham, meanwhile, is an unknown quantity to the new management team as he has been out with long term injury.

He completed 45 minutes against Walsall but, with his knee stiffening up, was taken off at half-time as a precaution.

On Graham, assistant manager Joe Dunne said: “We have spoken to people about him.

We have heard good things about him and we need to get a feel of what he's about.

“When you have been out for a period of time, getting that match action makes a big difference to confidence for a young player.”