Stags happy to see youth development paying dividends

It has been a few years since home-grown players have fed into the Stags’ first team, but both Thomas and Marsden made their debuts late in the season.

Assistant boss Adam Murray said: “They have been absolutely brilliant. Liam has had a bit more game time than Jack and shown the fans what he can do.

“It’s great for them to see one of their own coming through and to see that desire and spirit a local lad brings to the table.

“The future looks bright for them and we hope they will grab it with both hands.

“It is a great opportunity for them and, with their age, a great shop window in which to show what they can do.”

He added: “It was something this club used to have pride in – bringing its kids through. But, up to this season, it wasn’t set up properly with the age group conveyor belt system.

“But it’s there now and the people involved are doing their best to bring the local talent through.

“A lot of credit must go to Coops (coach Richard Cooper) for all the extra hours he has put in with them and we are seeing the benefits now.”