Young Irish full-back Michael Synnott is targeting a call into the first team during 2005/06. The 18-year-old was a member of the club's FA Youth Cup-winning side last season.

Synnott told the club site that he is aiming to press Fabian Wilnis for his place in Joe Royle's side: "The manager has proved that he is willing to give young players a chance in the first team if they deserve it and I'm hoping to push my way into the squad.

"That's my target for next year, to get into the senior squad, and the manager has challenged all the young players here to do that.

"He's said the first team is where you want to be and, with the club staying in the Championship, there is more of an opportunity for the young players to break into the squad."

Synnott had knee surgery two days after the second leg of the Youth Cup final against Southampton and is back at the club as he continues his recovery.

The Dublin-born player is an Irish U18 international having previously played for his country at a number of other levels.

Photo: Action Images

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