Reserves face hectic schedule

Norwich City Reserves embark on a busy spell of three games in the space of 10 days this afternoon when they take on their Southend counterparts at Roots Hall (2pm).

Norwich City Reserves embark on a busy spell of three games in the space of 10 days this afternoon when they take on their Southend counterparts at Roots Hall (2pm).

Academy manager Ricky Martin, who is looking after the side at present, once again only has young players to choose from, but the starting line-up is more experienced than some he has selected, with three professionals included.

Robert Eagle and Kris Renton, both unused substitutes in Sunday's East Anglian derby, get a full

run-out, as do Patrick Bexfield, Bally Smart and Andrew Cave-Brown, who have also been in or around the first team in recent weeks.

Martin is pleased with the way his young charges have adapted to life at a higher level, and now wants them to show a similar attitude in the considerably less rarefied atmosphere of the Pontin's Holidays Combination, East Division.

"The lads all know what is required against

Southend and I am confident they will go out there and show what they can do," he said.

City Reserves round off what has been a stop-start campaign next week with a trip to Stevenage on Tuesday followed by a rearranged home afternoon match with Luton at Colney two days later.

City Reserves: Arnold, Cave-Brown, Eagle, Halliday, Quaye, Byrne, Bexfield, Lathrope, Smart, Renton, Muddel. Subs: To be confirmed.