Bull doesn't want weight of expectation on kids' shoulders (From This Is Local London)

Bull doesn't want weight of expectation on kids' shoulders

8:50am Tuesday 7th August 2012 in Latest Sport By Andy Carswell

NIKKI Bull says fans shouldn't put too much pressure on Wanderers' youngsters at the start of the new season.

Several of them have played a prominent role in Blues' pre-season campaign, suggesting they could have a key role to play in Gary Waddock's side this season.

But Bull said: "They are progressing well but I hope people don't start expecting too much from them. They are only young boys who've come through the youth system, which is good for the club."

The Wanderers goalkeeper said however he's been impressed with what he's seen from the youngsters.

Defenders Anthony Stewart and Charles Dunne had a brief taste of first team football last season and injury to Dave Winfield and Danny Foster in pre-season have given him the opportunity to shine.

Bull said: "The young boys are coming on leaps and bounds. The experience of playing the likes of Fulham and QPR in pre-season is going to be worth its weight in gold."

He has also been keeping a close eye on Matt Ingram, who is now the only person challenging him for the goalkeeper's jersey.

Cost cutting led to Jason Mooney and Steve Arnold joining League One clubs and goalkeeping coach Martin Brennan moving on to a Premiership club.

Bull says Brennan will be missed but has been impressed with his replacement Lee Harrison, who he believes can get the best out of Ingram.

He said: "Brenno was fantastic at his job, not just for me but for the younger players. The club's going in a totally different direction this season. We haven't got anyone [to play in goal] really apart from Matt Ingram - there's only two goalies at the club. Last year we had six at one point.

"Lee Harrison's come in. He's got a wealth of experience and I'm looking to tap into that. Hopefully he can help Matt Ingram develop as well.

"I think the plan is to get him out on loan again once the season starts, so he can get some games under his belt."