Notts County academy manager Mick Halsall was pleased to allow two youngsters to leave on loan this week.
Montel Gibson and Yohan Rutty-Smith have joined Evo Stik Northern Premier Division One South club Romulus FC, the former signing an initial one-month deal and the latter joining the Birmingham-based side on work experience.And Halsall told nottscountyfc.co.uk that he hopes both players will take a lot from their spell at the Central Ground.
He said: “A huge part of any young player’s development is getting first-team experience, be that at their parent club or elsewhere.
“The physicality, pressures and expectation of senior football can’t be replicated in youth matches and, having been sent off on his debut last night, I’m sure Montel can already vouch for the fact that results-based football presents entirely different physical, mental and emotional challenges.”
Rutty-Smith and Gibson completed the formalities of their loan moves shortly before last night’s victory at Northwich Victoria.
Halsall said: “I’m aware that some supporters were disappointed that we didn’t publicise the news of these loans.
“As academy manager, a big part of my job is to ensure our young players remain grounded and, especially in the case of Yohan, who is on a work experience loan, stay out of the spotlight.
“However I understand supporters’ desire to be kept informed and, having discussed this issue with senior management at the club, I will ensure news of this nature will be publicised promptly in future.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank supporters for their continued interest and support of the academy.”