Rafa's challenge to youngsters

Last updated : 09 July 2008 By Al Campbell
Plenty of Gary Ablett's reserve side will get to play alongside the first team during pre-season and Rafa Benitez is challenging the kids to prove they're ready to make the step up to the first team squad.

"Clearly some of the young players will be involved in some of our games during pre-season and this is an opportunity for them to show what they can do, although some of them are so good they will play some games with their national teams," said the Reds boss.

"But we have a lot of confidence in them so if they can be with the first-team players and work with the coaching staff I am sure it will be good for them.

"It is important that they develop their experience at this stage of their careers and afterwards we will see but it is clear that they have a chance."