HOPKIN HAILS YOUNGTALENT
United kids have impressed boss in pre-season games
Ayr United boss David Hopkin reckons the club’s next generation of talent are giving him a pleasant selection headache.
Hopkin has dipped into the club’s crop of youngsters throughout pre-season and handed them a chance to shine.
And the United manager has challenged the kids to stake a claim for more regular first team outings.
He said: “It’s all about catching the manager’s eye and they have certainly done that.
“Some of them got half an hour against TNS, a very good team. And most of them got on against Stranraer. Even on Friday, when we played Hearts, they’ve equipped themselves very well.”
United drew 1-1 with Hearts in Largs with Michael Moffat on target.
The Honest Men were due to travel to Paisley last night (Tuesday) to take on St Mirren as their pre-season friendly fixtures continue.
But this Saturday the competitive action begins in earnest, with a trip to Coatbridge to take on Albion Rovers in a League Cup section tie.
Hopkin said: “We’ve got five or six kids who’ve been doing pre-season with us. They’re about 18 or 19 and they have all done very well.
“I’d have no qualms about having to play them in these games.”
Hopkin strengthened his options up front last Thursday by signing former Barnet striker Tomi Adeloye.
The 25-year-old becomes Hopkin’s sixth summer signing.
Hopkin remains eager to strengthen the first team squad further.
He added: “We are probably three or four players short of where I want to be, so it’s about taking your time to make sure we get the right players in.”