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Boss proud of young guns

Gavin Browne
28/ 4/2008

LATICS' manager John Sheridan lavished praise on some of his youngsters following the club's 2-1 win against Cheltenham Town last Saturday.

Deane Smalley and Lewis Alessandra scored the goals as Athletic ended their home campaign on a winning note. Both played well up front, showing good understanding of each other's play, while Matt Wolfenden also did well on the left-hand side before succumbing to an ankle injury at half-time.

Smalley's first-half strike carried extra significance as it was his maiden league goal in his 37th league appearance of the season, one which has ended with him being offered a new contract by the manager.

Sheridan said: "I'm pleased he got his goal, he could easily have eight or nine (this season). They both work very hard but they have to be in the areas where they're going to score goals, that's what they'll be judged on.

"The good thing about Deane is I like him on the right-hand side because he gives you energy and shows he's a good player, but I think he's improving. If he believes in himself more and gets more confidence in himself, I think he can be a player.

"He can score goals and next season he will score goals if he's playing, but he's got to want it and I've got to sort his contract out.

"I think Wolfy (Wolfenden) did a good job, but the three of them have got to grow up. They know I'll give them a chance because that's how you learn.

"They have to learn they aren't playing youth-team football, you get away with things there you don't in the first team."