PATRICK AND CO IN RIGHT PLACE – REEVES
BANTAMS midfielder Jake Reeves believes Bradford’s young players are at the perfect club to help their transition into consistent professionals.
Winger Omari Patrick, 21, is the latest from the development squad to break into the first team, impressing with seven League appearances and two goals so far this season.
Youngsters Tyrell Robinson and Jordan Gibson also caught the eye in Bradford’s 2-1 Checkatrade Trophy win over Manchester City U21s last week, and Reeves believes they could not be at a better club.
“I don’t think anyone expected Omari to do so well, including the staff and even himself,” said Reeves, 24.
“But he’s been given the opportunity and that’s what the gaffer is good at.
“He will put a young boy in if he feels he’s good enough and Omari’s done that. Look at him. He’s still with us and he’s playing games.
“Some gaffers at other clubs are maybe under a bit more pressure and aren’t prepared to throw in a lad who’s inexperienced.
“For whatever reason, whether that’s right or wrong, that’s unfortunately what they do. They’re not prepared to take that risk, if you like.”
Stuart McCall’s side have enjoyed a strong start to the season, garnering nine wins and 30 points from their first 16 games to climb to third in the table.
It’s always harder for young players to break into a team that’s performing so well, but Reeves believes that, as long as young players show the right work ethic, they’ll step up.
“The first pro contract is when the real hard work comes into place,” Reeves added.
“Those boys have to keep their heads down.
“They are obviously here for a reason, especially at a club where the gaffer’s shown that he’s not afraid to play a younger player.”