Young trio have chance to stake AFC Telford claim

Benji Robinson, Dan Frances and Jordan Broome have all caught the eye of Bucks boss Rob Smith, and will be handed a chance to impress.

Robinson, a forward blessed with lightning pace, made his Telford first team bow as they drew 0-0 in their final game of the season against Harrogate Town, while midfielders Frances and Broome both featured in matchday squads during the campaign.

“We will have a look at them in pre-season,” said Smith.

“They will have a full pre-season with us and whatever happens, they will be better off for that.

“We will definitely have a look at them.”

Robinson – who has been prolific for the youth team – got the Bucks faithful excited with his willingness to attack against Harrogate, and his work rate.

On his contribution, Smith said: “”I said to him ‘cherish that experience’ because it’s a big thing for a young player. I was quite proud to get him on.”

“It’s difficult. The pace is the raw thing which he’s got, and it’s a big thing to step up when you’re a young boy. I often get told ‘look at this player’ – but it’s such a big jump.

“He’ll tell you himself – kicked all over the shop. It’s a big learning curve. With that pace, he’s got something. We will get him involved in pre-season.

Robinson, Frances and Broome are all set to be involved as AFC Telford United under-18s look to win the Shropshire Youth Cup tonight.

They take on Haughmond in the final at the Greenhous Meadow at 7pm.

For Robinson and Frances, if they win it would be their second Shropshire Cup medal of the season as they were part of the squad that won the Senior crown, beating Shrewsbury Town 2-0 in March.

Meanwhile, Smith revealed he is looking to give two others a chance to show they belong over pre-season – goalkeeper Ash Rawlins and striker Dan Westwood.

Rawlins, 21, played the last two games of the season after being signed from Market Drayton Town, while Westwood made seven appearances after jumping up four divisions from Wolverhampton Sporting.

Smith added: “I wouldn’t say I have seen enough from Ash but he will certainly be welcome to come over pre-season and throw his hat into the ring.

“Westy is 26. He has to learn this level of football and it was always going to be next season.

“If he gets used to it, great. If he doesn’t, he’ll have to drop down again. He will certainly get an opportunity.”