BLUES boss Phil Brown has labelled the introduction of an under 21 team as a massive step forward for the football club.

Brown hopes to have the idea in place for next season.

And he has already received applications for the newly created coaching position.

“This is a massive step forward for us and there has already been some very strong people applying for the job of under 21 coach, including some ex managers,” said Brown.

“Bringing them in will allow Graham Coughlan to work more with the first team which is what I want and I think it’s going to be fantastic.

“The chairman is really driving it on and it’s another step towards being a category two club which is what the target is for everyone here.”