OXFORD United youth team coach Chris Allen says the emergence of James Roberts has given all the youngsters at the club a huge lift.

The striker’s two goals at Grimsby Town last week provided much encouragement to Allen’s up-and-coming stars, who know that if they are good enough, they will get a chance to feature in the first team.

United’s youth side will face Swindon Town in the second round of the FA Youth Cup at the Kassam Stadium next Tuesday (7.30), with a trip to Manchester City awaiting the winners.

“Of course the youth team get to see what can happen,” Allen said.

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“They are not just here making the numbers up. They are part of a scholarship programme with a pathway into the first team.

“James Roberts has done well, coming through the youth team, to the under 21s to the first team where he is scoring goals.

“It’s great to see that it can actually happen and it gives everyone a lift.

“It starts at under nine here with the development and academy side.

“Callum O’Dowda was here at that age so it shows it is possible for players to go right through.”

Allen says the chance to play at the Kassam Stadium has provided a further boost.

“It’s one they always look forward to every year, the FA Youth Cup,” he said.

“The club has done fantastically well to allowing us to play at the Kassam and it’s obviously a great one with it being Swindon.

“The fans were great at Didcot against Bristol City and they got right behind us and hopefully the same lot will come, along with a few more, to create a good atmosphere.”

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