Mark Hughes on his hopes for Bantams youngsters

Academy graduates Bobby Pointon, Dylan Youmbi and Harvey Rowe signed new one-year contracts in the summer.

They were included in last week’s training trip to Spain along with teenage keeper Heath Richardson - with Pointon playing up front in the second half of the friendly against La Liga outfit Getafe.

The 19-year-olds are all expected to feature in tomorrow’s traditional pre-season trip to Bradford (Park Avenue) as Hughes continues to run the rule over their progress.

The City boss would ideally like to keep them developing at the club in the upcoming season rather than sanctioning loan moves elsewhere.

But that will be decided nearer the time and may hinge on the make-up of the squad at that point.

“We’ll play it by ear,” said Hughes. “The intention was to be a little bit leaner this year with less numbers and then supplement it with the younger players.

“If we send them out on loan, we might not have their availability, so we’ll see.

“Circumstances might dictate what we do and whether we have a choice to keep them with us or send them out on loan because maybe the numbers aren’t right.

“The intention is to keep them in and around the group. They were given new contracts because we feel there’s potential there.”

Youmbi and Pointon split the second half in City’s pre-season opener at Bury - with substitute Pointon producing a superb cross for Jamie Walker to score.

Pointon then partnered Matt Derbyshire for 45 minutes in the heat of Oliva Nova on Friday night.

Hughes feels the teenagers can cope with the extra demands of being involved in the first-team environment.

Defender Harvey Rowe was also given a new deal (Image: Bradford City)

“There’s always a worry when you bring young players into the senior group when they aren’t read or it’s before their time.

“Their ability to keep the level high can be affected and that can hit their confidence.

“They have to be ready to step up and be part of the group. The three lads have been doing that for over a year now.

“That’s why they’ve made the step-up. We know we can bring them into the group and the standard stays high.

“It can be a bit daunting but the young lads are well liked within the group and they are respected for their ability as well.

“That’s a major point for them. Given their development, they need the help of the senior players.”

City are playing a game behind closed doors against Bolton today ahead of the annual friendly for the Tom Banks Memorial Trophy at Horsfall Stadium.