Rookie striker Darren Stephenson will be on City's bench against Shrewsbury on Saturday.

The 18-year-old has been given his chance by Peter Jackson after scoring in the last two reserve games.

Jackson said: "He's a big, strong and physical lad and he has a certain presence about him.

"Darren's inclusion will hopefully be the first of many players to come through the youth ranks.

"With the help of David Wetherall and Peter Horne in the youth set-up, I want to start bringing through more of the younger players into the first team.

"Darren is just one of several that we have high hopes for. It is up to him now to take his opportunity if and when it arises."

Second-year scholar Stephenson, who has been given the number 29 shirt, has also netted four goals for the youth team.