Downing says youth is important to Cheltenham (Getty)

Keith Downing says Cheltenham's youth set-up is "vital", with the club not signing "big-money" players.

The Robins' manager told BBC Radio Gloucestershire he was delighted with the performance of three teenagers in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Southampton.

"It gives me food for thought that the youngsters are there. There's a lot of positives underneath the main squad."

Cheltenham's substitutes included goal-scoring Theo Lewis, 16, Marley Watkins and Josh Emery.

Downing has recently been thwarted in moves for a series of experienced forwards, something he says may lead to more opportunities for younger players at the club.

"We have shortened the squad down and I always think whatever you do opens a door for someone else, for trialists and for the youngsters to get some experience.

"All three really brightened the game up. If they can push through by the end of this season then that would be fantastic.

"[The] youth system is vital to this football club as we don't go spending big money on players."

Downing says he will not be offering contracts to trialists Gregory Duruz and Ryan Martin.