Town's next young stars backed to step up

Second-year scholars Callum Grogan and Ethan Jones have already trained with Mellon's squad and are among the leading prospects in the academy.

Grogan, a centre-back, was released from Bolton's academy before impressing in a game for Liverpool's Foundation College side against Shrewsbury, who then snapped him up.

Pacy striker Jones, 17, who can also play the No 10 role, hails from Dudley and came from Wolves' academy.

Head of academy Dawes believes they could follow Player of the Year Connor Goldson and Ryan Woods and add to the seven home-grown players in the senior squad.

Dawes said: "Last season Ethan Jones and Callum Grogan got an opportunity to train with the first team and we're hoping another one or two get that chance.

"Certainly if they keep going in the direction they're going, they will continue to get first-team training opportunities. They're going in the right direction and eventually they might make first-team appearances.

"They've started their second year as scholars and hopefully more come out of that group as well. After a year of settling in, this is a big year for a lot of them now."

Dawes, who celebrated his first anniversary at the club last week, is convinced home-grown players will continue to get their chance under Mellon if they shine.

He said: "Micky is massive on the youth side, he would rather a player come through the youth system here as opposed to buying one."

Dawes also highlighted the mentoring role of players such as Goldson, who has taken Grogan under his wing.

He said: "With him being a centre-back, Connor gave him some advice and I think Callum looks up to him.

"Personalities such as Connor are priceless in football. You've got to have the right people."