The Imps’ lead Professional Development Phase Coach, Tom Shaw, is anticipating a tough test as City host Watford in Round Four of the FA Youth Cup.
City made it to Round Four after an impressive 1-0 win against Preston North End at Deepdale, with Freddie Draper scoring the winner back in January.
Due to COVID-19, the competition was temporarily ground to a halt. Now, Tom and the squad are hoping to cause another potential upset.
“It’s an excellent achievement to get to this stage. It’s the furthest a Youth Team at Lincoln has got into the competition by reaching the Fourth Round.”
“We’ve had to wait a while, with the competition being suspended for the right reasons, but the boys are chomping at the bit to go out and give a great account of themselves at LNER Stadium.”
The Hornets currently sit fourth in Group B of the Professional Development League and are managed by former City coach Simon Clark. Tom Shaw expects another tough test but is looking forward to facing a talented side in Watford.
“Watford have some very talented individuals and will be a really good side. They have been a Premier League club until recently and their area isn’t a bad one to recruit.”
“We’ve done our usual analysis on them and have found a few bits we think we can exploit on the evening. “
Sam Long, Sean Roughan and other members from the U18’s squad train with the first-team squad during the season. Shaw explained the importance of seeing what it takes to reach the next level.
“We’ve had a good number of players train with the first-team throughout the season, they get a snapshot of the demands and what it takes at the top level, which will bring their game on.”
“I can see a change in character and personality in some of the lads, who come back with more confidence and belief in what they’re doing from that.”
City supporters will be able to watch tonight’s match versus Watford live on YouTube from 6pm.
Tonight’s match is also kindly sponsored by the Lincoln City Former Players Association.
