CHAMPIONSHIP TRIO IN CHASE FOR CANARY KID

BRISTOL CITY have been joined in the chase for Hitchin Town starlet Kane Smith by Championship rivals Reading and Sheffield Wednesday.

The 19-year-old rightback was due to play for West Brom’s U21s against Arsenal last Monday, having spent three days of the previous week on trial at the Hawthorns.

The Premier League side informed Hitchin last Sunday that Smith was unlikely to get on in that game, however, with Tony Pulis and his staff wanting to use it to check the fitness of players who had returned from loan spells.

Bristol City have agreed to meet the Evo-Stik League Southern Premier side’s asking price, but wanted Smith to play in tomorrow’s U21 game against Crystal Palace.

However, it is unlikely that game will go ahead due to a combination of the weather and Bristol City U21 coach Wade Elliott’s elevation to first-team duties following Thursday’s sacking of Steve Cotterill.

League One Millwall and League Two highflyers Oxford are also keen on the teenager.

Meanwhile, Fulham have spent the past week running the rule over Dunstable Town defender Luke Pennell, also 19.

Pennell recently spent time on trial at Fleetwood, Burnley and Norwich.

Dunstable boss Tony Fontenelle said:“Luke hasn’t got to play in a game this week, but by all accounts they have been impressed with him.

“I’m very proud of the progress we’re making on the pitch and for clubs to look at one of our players is testament to what we’re trying to do at Dunstable.”