Steve Davis too keep watchful eye on his young prospect George Cooper

Steve Davis says that young George Cooper deserved his first senior start at Bradford City last weekend based on his recent performances. Cooper played 90 minutes at Valley Parade last weekend but Davis stresses that he will continue to use the 17-year-old sparingly to avoid burn out.

Cooper will be hoping that he can retain his place for the visit of Coventry City this weekend but Davis doesn’t want expectations to rise too soon.

Steve told crewealex.net: “It is my job to be careful with the young players. I know when it is right to put them in and give them a chance and I know when the time is right to take them out as well.

“It is the same with George as any other of our young player. There is no doubt that George has deserved his chance because of his performances for the Under-21s and in training. He has had a consistent spell and deserved his opportunity.

“He is the first one who has really come through, but we expect more of them to do so. The young players know that if they play consistency well then they will get a chance here.

“George has enjoyed his opportunity but we know that we cannot rely too much on him. We have to try and control the expectation levels. He is a young player. A really good prospect for us, but that is all he is at the moment. He has to keep working hard.

The manager added: “He has a great temperament and certainly wasn’t fazed by making his full debut last weekend."