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JIM Thompson reckons Queens could soon feature members of his under-19s squad.
The former Doonhamers captain has been in charge of coaching of the under-19s team for a year now.
And he thinks some of his squad could feature in next season's first team.
Speaking to the Dumfries and Galloway Standard "We've got a couple of lads who I really hope will play in some form for the first team next season.
"There's a lot of potential in that squad.
"But at their age, it's one thing to show potential.
"It's quite another to be good enough to break through to the first team.
"Kenny Brannigan will be putting pressure on me to bring through good young players and that's the way it should be.
"I'm enjoying the challenge of it all."
Queens Chairman Davie Rae told the Standard last week that he hoped youth players would plug the gaps as the squad shrinks.
Twelve players have left the first team, but Brannigan can only bring in three replacements.
And Thompson sees the chance to play for the first team as a great motivator for his young players.
He said: "The boys will know there's a smaller squad this season, and they know if they perform they could find themselves in the first team.
"It will be a something for them to fight for.
"I'm expecting this to be a big year for a few of the lads.
"Last year was tough because it was the first year in the under-19s.
"Most of the players were only 17, so it was a big jump for them playing against 19-year-olds.
"They're a year older and more experienced, and it should be a better year for them.
"The biggest problem with young players is their consistency.
"They can be on top form one week, and nowhere the next.
"It's obviously very important for the first team that players are consistent and that's what we're going for with the young lads."
Thompson singled out a handful of attacking players who he reckons could make the big jump.
One youngster who has caught his eye is Daniel Orsi.
The teenager has featured in the Scottish Schools team set-up and came off the bench to play in a friendly against Celtic in February.
"Daniel is a player who is showing that discipline and consistency that's so important," Thompson said.
"He's already been on the bench for the first team this season, and I'm hoping he'll be there again next season."