Tottenham ‘insider’ John Wenham expects Dane Scarlett and Alfie Devine to drop down into the club’s Under-18 side for next week’s FA Youth Cup clash against Ipswich.
The 17-year-old pair have both registered appearances for the club’s senior team with Scarlett featuring in the Europa Conference League, while Devine tallied on his debut in last season’s FA Cup win over Marine.
Both have been prominent in Spurs’ Under-23 outfit this term and have played a role in the side’s current second-place position in the Premier League 2 table.
Although Scarlett and Devine have been key players for the reserve team, Wenham believes the pair will drop down a couple of age groups into the Under-18 side for the encounter against Ipswich – labelling the fixture as ‘vital for their development’.
He told Football Insider: “Dane Scarlett was on the bench against Norwich. Alfie Devine also returned for the Under 23s in yet another comprehensive victory over Manchester City.
“I would actually expect those two players to be dropped into our FA Youth Cup game against Ipswich. They are both 17 so are eligible for that game and players of that age are encouraged to play in that competition.
“Jamie Donley is injured so he will miss that game. I expect they will be made available for that game.
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“It might sound unusual but I think it’s vital for their development, I’m sure the club see it that way too. It will also be a stern test because Ipswich are very good at that level. It’s a big chance for them to shine.”
Spurs Web Opinion
If the game is important, then both Scarlett and Devine will be available for it given they are two of Spurs’ brightest talents in the academy at the moment.
The fact the encounter is against a tough opponent shows it will be good for their development, which should be beneficial for the club going forward.
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