Boss Joe Royle has revealed that striker Dean Bowditch will start at Boston on Saturday. Bowditch scored twice after coming on at half-time in the Blues' first pre-season friendly at Cambridge United on Wednesday.

Royle didn't make the trip to the Abbey Stadium as he is recovering from his recent knee replacement but was impressed when he watched the England U19 international's performance on tape: "I saw Deano's goals on television and he took them very well, then I watched a video of the entire game and he made a good all-round contribution.

"That made up my mind for me that he should start at Boston. He's a nice kid who is eager to do well for the club and we all want him to have a good season. Dean has filled out a bit and is stronger. He's a shade over six feet tall now and he's just turned 19.

"He made his senior debut very early - he came into the side as a 16-year-old - and when that happens it often means that the level of expectation is a little bit high at times. Goals were what was missing from his game last season."

Royle could partner Bowditch with either Sam Parkin or Nicky Forster, or alternatively all three could be given a run-out at York Street.

The Town boss could also give a start to 17-year-old Irish central midfielder Owen Garvan. Royle has indicated that Garvan will be very much in his plans this season and has not been included in the reserves squad travelling to Dereham Town on Monday.

Squad: Bowditch, Collins, Currie, De Vos, Forster, Garvan, Horlock, Juan, Magilton, McDonald, Moore, Naylor, Parkin, Price, Richards, Supple, Westlake, Wilnis.

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