06 Apr 2026 10:38:27
Braiden's back training with the Senior squad. I'm pretty sure we'll see him involved with the first team before the season's out.
06 Apr 2026 11:51:14
Would like to think so, mate, some involvement would be really good.
06 Apr 2026 14:02:50
I don't think he's ready for the demands of the Premier League. He's got talent and potential, and hopefully he keeps developing the way he has. But right now he's exactly where he needs to be, being integrated into the 1st team for experience from U-21s. Then he'll go on loan for a season or two to get used to senior football.
06 Apr 2026 15:05:30
You are probably right there, Joe, but he can still be given some cameos, which will be fantastic for his development and confidence.
He has been playing Men's football since he was 15. From what I have seen of him in training, he does not shirk the physical battles with our 1st teamers.
He might not be ready to lead the line, but I think he could still be used on the flanks or just off the striker.
If we don't try it, we will never know.
Whilst loans can be good for a player, how many have we seen from our academy just fade out, e.g. Garbutt, Ledson and more. The so-called big clubs seem to blood their youngsters in, so why can't we. If they don't turn out to be good enough, their value can only increase by having PL minutes on their CV, if we move them on.
06 Apr 2026 15:30:02
As you say, BN, unless we try and get him involved we won't know, so give him a go.
06 Apr 2026 16:08:19
If it gets to the point where we have no hope of Europe, then put him in the side. Until then, play the winning formation from the Chelsea game, barring any injuries.
{Ed025's Note - that makes sense to me Ace..
07 Apr 2026 19:29:13
Although he's mainly a striker, he seems to perform better behind striker. I'd certainly not be too bothered about opposition roughing him up, as he can give as much as he takes. I remember a certain lightweight called Juninho, who played for Middlesbrough in the Premier League.
He did alright, didn't he. Plus players like Cole Palmer & Phil Foden aren't exactly muscle men. I'd say give Graham a go if we are comfortable in some games.