Teen trio are on Mansfield Town bench on merit, says manager Graham Coughlan

Striker Jimmy Knowles, 18, has been a regular on the bench, attacking midfielder Tyrese Sinclair, 19, has been on there twice before, and goalkeeper Maison Campbell. 16, was there for the first time.

“Let's be honest, they were not put on the bench because they were kids,” said Coughlan.

“That's the first people chuck at you. They were put on the bench because they deserved it.

“Let's not do the kids a disservice and concentrate on their age.

“Let's concentrate on the qualities that they've got and the reasons why they are regularly training with the first team and playing in the reserves ahead of one or two senior players. The reason is they are good enough.

“They have been quality for the last few months since I came through the door.”

He continued: “Maison Campbell has really impressed me over the last couple of weeks since we dragged him up to train with the first team.

“Since Sinclair has come in he has been different class and a breath of fresh air. The environment has not fazed him and the hard work has not fazed him.

“They are built and cut from the same cloth as me. They are honest, hard-working and their endeavour is second to none.

“If you are going to come and work with me you've got to work hard and run hard and these guys are doing that.”

Coughlan hopes more youngsters will make the breakthrough too.

“Don't be surprised if there's another couple there sitting in the background that I would have no fear or hesitation of using as well,” he said.

“If the senior boys are not doing it the junior boys will – that's plain, simple and easy. They bring an energy and an enthusiasm and youthfulness to our sessions. I really enjoy working with them.

“I have always said it's pointless having academies and those coaches going out in the evenings on cold, wet, windy nights coaching if there is no pathway for the kids to break into the first team.”