Assessment of the U20s Season
Sunday, 29th May 2016After signing a new contract, Under 20s Coach John Potter spoke to Black & White to give his assessment of the season.
“At Under 20 level results are not the be all and end all although I’d have to be honest and say that they have been disappointing this season. There are a number of reasons for that – we had by far and away the youngest squad in the league and we knew that for a lot of the squad playing at this level came a bit too early for them. The ones from last season that might have made a difference were either in the first team squad or had left the club.
“The boys took a wee while to get into the swing but I’ve noticed a big difference since January. We’ve been playing some really good football and maybe at times there’s just been the final ball missing or taking the chances that we have created.
"But overall I’m pleased with progress – the boys have come on and have learned a lot from playing at this level. We could maybe have played in one of the other Development Leagues and won it but I think it is more important for a club like Dunfermline to have their youngsters exposed to playing at this level.
“Although we will have to apply because only Premier League clubs are guaranteed a place, I am hopeful that we will be in the same league next season, particularly as the club has moved up to the Championship level. The players will be another year older and more experienced which should give them a great chance of doing well.
"James Thomas and Evan Horne signed contracts and Stewart Morrison has been offered an apprenticeship. I’m also hoping that we can tie up PJ Crossan – PJ has had a great year and I think he could do really well next season. If I can get a nucleus of around ten players in the squad we can do well.
“I’m also very pleased about my own situation. The manager has made it clear for a while that he wanted me to stay and I have enjoyed the work with the Under 20s and supporting Allan and Sandy with the first team, so I was very happy to sign a new contract. Next year could be great at all levels.”
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