NORWICH City Under-18s manager Graeme Murty has challenged his team to keep meeting the levels set in recent weeks when they face Middlesbrough at Carrow Road in the FA Youth Cup on Wednesday (7pm).

The Canaries find themselves in the fifth round of the competition following impressive victories away to Hull City and Sunderland, while their last league outing ended in a 3-2 success at Southampton.

Such form offers a strong platform heading into a landmark game for the youngsters, and Murty told canaries.co.uk: "We want the players to enjoy it initially, but then it's about focusing on the game.

"I want them to stay in the present and concentrate on doing what they're good at. We've shown in numerous games this year how capable we can be, so it's about maintaining those standards.

"If we do that, the players can be really proud, and will also have a chance of progressing. We've shown real maturity in this competition so far, which gives me confidence for their careers going forward.

"It's a knockout competition, and one of the reasons I wanted to test myself at this level with performance-based coaching. In terms of my personal coaching career, this will be the pinnacle so far."

Murty also actively encouraged fans to back City in their numbers, and added: "The players deserve to be observed by a big crowd and it's great how this competition gives them an opportunity.

"Equally however, it's a chance for supporters to see the next generation do their thing. They may not do everything right just yet, but they love to attack and they love to score goals.

"Individually and collectively they work extremely hard, and this is a chance to showcase that on a big stage. As a player, throughout my career, having the crowd behind you made for a positive experience.

"This game is an opportunity for players to put a marker down, so we're hoping for a good crowd to cheer us on."

Tickets for the game are priced at £2 for adults and 50p for under-17s, and can be purchased ONLINE, by phone on 0844 826 1902 and from the ticket offices at Carrow Road, Castle Mall and Chapelfield.

GRAEME MURTY: MAINTAIN THE STANDARD

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