ASSISTANT manager Ashley Vincent reckons Liam Lockett’s ability matches that of youngsters pushing for a future in the Football League.

Hot prospect Lockett, 19, has signed a one-year contract with the Midland Football League outfit, the first player to do so since City dropped from the National North.

The attacking midfielder bagged a whopping 28 goals in 23 matches for the under-21s last season and netted in Saturday’s 3-1 pre-season friendly victory at Redditch United.

“Liam has been fantastic over the few weeks I have worked with him,” said Vincent.

“He is still a young lad who has a lot of development in him but even at this early stage his performances have been mature and outstanding.

“Last season I coached at Cheltenham Town’s academy and while he is a couple of years older than those lads, he certainly has the same amount of talent.

“Now it is a case of finding that consistency and helping that extra development and tactical knowhow. I think we can work together to bring those aspects to his game.”

Lockett was one of many homegrown talents to feature in the first team last season with manager John Snape highlighting the need for that trend to continue this term.

And after seeing what City have coming through the ranks, Vincent predicts more could follow in Lockett’s footsteps.

“Since I came in quite a few of the young boys have done well,” said Vincent.

“We spoke in the summer about pushing some of our homegrown lads into the team which is of interest to all of us.

“We want to protect our talent, of course, but we also want to reward the lads who are doing well and Liam is not the only one.

“There are a couple of other lads who are perhaps a bit young to sign contracts but if they keep coming along in the manner they are, they won’t be far away from being offered something when they come of age.

“It puts out a positive message that Worcester City will be a youthful side with a bit of experience and that young lads will get their chance here.

“It is not about age. It might be an old cliché but if you’re good enough, you will play. That’s how it will be, people will see the best players.”