Pressure off new-boy Youngs

Reporter: MATTHEW CHAMBERS
Date published: 28 November 2014


ATHLETIC are taking a no-strings-attached look at Tom Youngs.

The 20 year old arrived at SportsDirect.com Park to take part in his first training session yesterday on youth loan from Bolton until January 5.

As far as manager Lee Johnson is concerned, an opportunity to observe the forward at close quarters is worth taking.

“Tom is a guy similar to how I saw Conor Wilkinson,” Johnson said. “I’ve been watching his games for quite a while and he has shown something.

“He is one to have a look at and he can have a look at us. There is no real pressure for us to play him or for him to go and be the main man. It will be interesting to see how he does.”

Youngs, whose contract at the Macron Stadium runs until the end of next season, grew up in the youth ranks with fellow London-born starlet Wilkinson.

He appreciates he will have to earn his place in Athletic’s side, but feels ready to accept the challenge to force his way in.

“Conor Wilkinson is a very good mate,” Youngs added. “When I told him I was joining, he said it’s a great club to be at.

“Coming from the under-21s into first-team football, it is difficult, but I’m looking forward to it. I like to score goals and hopefully I can bring those as well as assists to help the team.”

Youngs hopes a successful spell with Athletic will see the loan extended.

He added: “To be fair, I haven’t had the best start to the season. But with this move I can hopefully get playing, enjoying my football and winning games.”