Burnley manager Eddie Howe cheered by young stars (From This Is Lancashire)

Burnley manager Eddie Howe cheered by young stars

10:11am Friday 10th February 2012 in Football By Suzanne Geldard, Burnley FC reporter

EDDIE Howe praised Burnley’s youth players and staff after the club’s young stars reached the FA Youth Cup quarters finals for the first time in more than 30 years.

The Clarets boss was at The Hawthorns on Wednesday night to see the under 18s earn a 2-1 win over West Brom.

A Steve Hewitt penalty gave Terry Pashley and Andy Farrell’s young charges an early lead, which they held until the 85th minute.

The game looked to be heading for extra time when Aaron Birch equalised, but Northern Irish striker Shay McCartan fired Burnley into the last eight with a stunning late winner.

“The youth team were absolutely outstanding, especially in the first half, they passed and moved the ball really well and were a pleasure to watch,” said Howe.

“I was very impressed with the lads. It’s a talented team with some really good individuals in there, a few lads with a chance of making the grade, so the future bodes well.”

Howe, who has already signed up second-year scholar Hewitt on a pro contract, added: “There’s a really good balance to the side in key positions.

“They’ve got some really talented first year (scholars) coming through to complement the second years and I think they’ve got a fantastic attitude.

“The real acid test is how many are going to come through individually and make the grade and I think even within a good team there are good individuals who could make the step up, and that’s hopefully the plan.”