TONIGHT'S Worcestershire Sen-ior Cup clash at Bromsgrove Rovers might not be the most glamorous fixture on Worcester City's calendar -- but it could be the most important game in the careers of four young lads.

While most eyes will focus on Danny McDonnell and Jai Stanley in their return from respective rib and knee injuries, the more intriguing aspect of the Victoria Ground tie is how Ben Walker, Gary Walker, Dean Clarke and Luke Whittington all fare.

Unsurprisingly, the Worcestershire competition is low on John Barton's priority list this season and the fixture -- which should be fierce with Rovers always keen to knock down their big neighbours a peg or two -- provides the manager with an ideal opportunity to integrate the promising quartet into the first-team.

The youngsters have shone on a regular basis in the club's academy side, managed by youth development officer Ray Woods, but realistic assessments of their long-term future at St George's Lane can only be gauged with exposure on the big stage.

Barton must be commended for giving Whittington, 17, Clarke, 17, and the 16-year-old Walkers (not related) their chance alongside City's experienced stars, although he is unlikely to plunge them all into the deep end from the kick-off.

Woods is understandably happy that his rising crop of talent have been dealt an opportunity, but he insists the hard part is now seizing the moment with both hands.

He said: "The most important thing is that these lads are given a taster and that is what John is doing. It is a fantastic fillip for them and they fully deserve the opportunity.

"Hopefully, once they get a taste for it, they will want more and their attitude will be such that they will do everything in their power to get more. It's important that they show the manager what they are capable of doing.

"They have all got a lot of qualities. Ben is a very tall centre-half, with good build and a quick brain. He's got a really good chance if we work with him for the next 12 to 18 months.

"Gary has been great in central midfield. He's fearless, workmanlike, gets his tackles in and also gets his fair share of goals. Luke has already been involved with the first team and is an excellent all-round player whose good in the air and has great vision. Dean plays wide right, has got fantastic pace, and can put in great crosses on the run."

Woods believes teaming up with the likes of seasoned professionals Stanley and McDonnell can only be beneficial in sharpening the skills and attitudes of his apprentices.

He added: "Jai played for us in the Midland Combination reserve game last week with the 16-year-olds and he was a great role model for them. He always wanted the ball and wanted to make things happen. He said himself afterwards that we have a lot of good young players.

"It's now just a case of nurturing them, bringing them along, and giving them the opportunity."

City have opened up a city centre shop in the build-up to Christmas.

It is located at 22 Lychgate Mall, in the Cathedral Plaza, and will be open every day until Christmas Eve from 10am to 4pm, with late closing at 8pm on Thursdays.

The shop will stock all usual City leisurewear and souvenirs.