2012/13 A Seaon For The Youngsters?

With the new season approaching, I've taken this time to look at our squad in detail. There have been many worries over the past few months that we are an ageing team and after looking at the squad, I have to agree. But, I don't think its any need to worry. The likes of Cahill, Neville, Hibbert, Distin and Pienaar are all into their 30's now and possibly entering their last few years of professional football. Of course, we are going to need replacements for these players. But, when you look at the squad and especially our recent pre season games, I personally am calm about the situation when I see our younger players and the ability they posses.

Firstly, I know we've had our problems with Jack Rodwell, but I believe this is going to be the season he proves himself as a quality player. We know he has the ability. Just watch the goals he has scored in Europe and that brilliant move and goal against Man Utd a few years ago. He's had injury problems but it looks like he's past that and from the game against Morecambe and Motherwell, he looks to be full of confidence.

Secondly, Ross Barkley is such a promising player. The local lad was due to break into the first team a couple of years ago but was denied the opportunity due to an injury he suffered while playing for England. He still has a lot to learn but at the age of 18, he's already looking like a quality player for the Reserves and the England under 19's.

Also, the likes of Shane Duffy, Conor McAleny, Junior and Garbutt are looking like they will be breaking into the first team next season. Duffy had a spell in the first team last season and surprised us all with some quality performances. McAleny did make an appearance last season away to Arsenal and almost equalised with a volley that went just wide of the post. His performances for the reserves are making him stand out to Moyes and co. Junior and Garbutt are playing in our pre season games regularly now and seem to be doing well. We havent seen much of them two but their performances in pre season have put them in everyone's mind and so they are two more players we could see in the first team next season.