Charlton youth look to make the grade

JONJO SHELVEY, 16 years old, two first team appearances.
“He’s shown a level of maturity that’s surprised a few people – but not those in the academy who have seen what he has done.

“There’s got to be caution with him. He’s still very young and it’s unfair to put a burden of expectation on his shoulders.

“He’s a good kid. I suppose in this day and age, football is higher on his list of priorities as opposed to education, but apparently he’s also doing well in that as well. Education is very important to us as a club because you never know what may happen in the future.

“He’s got his GCSE exams soon so he will have to come back to earth very quickly. Then he’ll join us later this summer not as a pro but as a scholar along with eight guys the same age. He’ll do what he needs to do with them but I’m sure he’ll be training along with the first team soon.

“Alan Pardew will look at it on a game-to-game basis. He’s experienced to know when it will be getting too much for Jonjo. His body is still developing.

"We know he’s going to get better even though his performances have already been very good. There will be times when the rigours of this division, the constant Saturday and Tuesday matches as well as cup matches could get too much.”

SCOTT WAGSTAFF, 18, two appearances
“Everyone watching the youth team and reserves this season has seen what Scott can do.

“After a shaky start when he came on against Coventry I was delighted at the end when he had a couple of runs. He’s quick.

“He’s still got a lot to learn but he’s got a heart of gold and people will see his effort paying off next year.”

GRANT BASEY, 19, nine appearances.
“Nobody’s worked harder than Grant, to get to where he’s got to. He’ll be wishing the season started next week.

“He’s done well after a loan spell at Brentford. He’s come back far more experienced. The manager recognised that he did well and gave him his chance.

“We know he’s played on the left wing before and that he’s capable of playing there.
He likes to get forward, he’s good in the box, likes taking free kicks, and that’s a possible role for him.

“He may prefer left back but with Kelly [Youga] and Ben [Thatcher] around if Grant can play in the midfield and add a solid feel to it then that will be good.”

JOSH WRIGHT, 18, no appearances.
“Josh has probably got the ability to push on next year.

“He has the experience of playing a year at Barnet and he will come back a different, more experienced player, aware of the rigours of league football.”

HARRY ARTER, 18, one appearance.
“It’s been an unfortunate season for Harry. He had 45 minutes against Luton in the cup and he did well but since then he’s picked up numerous injuries.

“Hopefully he can get over that and will be fit and ready for the start of next season.”