Colin Wallington, right, and his assistant Nicky Smith have been impressed with the Bloods youngest stars.

COLIN Wallington has praised his side’s younger players, calling them an “integral” part of the squad.

The Bloods boast six first team players under the age of 22 to compliment the experience of 36-year-old Stuart Wardley; Ben and Alex Riches, both 34; Lee Owen, 31, and Paul Wood, 31.

James Crane, 21, has already distinguished himself as a veritable goal threat with his pace and finishing ability causing nightmares for opposing defenders.

James Abbott, 21, cemented himself in the centre of midfield from the off. The tenacious youngster is a ball winner the middle of the park, creative going forward and has knack for finding the net.

Chris Reid, 22, started the year as a centre back but, having been moved to right back has proven he is more than capable of playing the position.

Jake Noble, 19, was brought into the side against Brightlingsea in the absence of Dan Phelan but with another start and a dominant showing against Debenham, ‘Nobby’ is breaking his way into the starting XI.

The youngest player in the squad at just 16, Charlie Davies has impressed Wallington. The Cambridge United youth product has come off the bench in every game for the Bloods and has shown flashes of brilliance.

“The attitude of the young players has been excellent,” said Wallington.

“These lads have come from playing football in the park to competing at a high level – you can really see them growing as players from week to week.”

The fusion of old and young is working magnificently for the Bloods who are second in the Thurlow Nunn League Division One having won five and drawn one in their six games, scoring 17 and conceding just four.