Manager Liam Daish is keen to give young players a chance

Ebbsfleet United under-19s boss Ian Docker has said he believes their full-time youth scheme will help produce more stars of the future.

Former graduates include Bristol City striker John Akinde and Fleet's current top scorer Luke Moore.

"One of the things that makes my job easier is that we've got a first-team manager who encourages youth to play," said Docker.

"If they're good enough they will get into Liam Daish's squad."

Docker added: "John Akinde and Luke Moore have both got in there and obviously they've done really well.

"From a personal point of view I'm delighted the youth-team members are doing so well."

Between now and Christmas Liam will always ask for three or four players to step in and train with them once or twice a week Ian Docker

The Fleet's youth scheme enables 34 young players to combine studies at nearby Meopham Secondary School with their training.

And Docker told BBC Radio Kent injuries will mean more of them will get their big break with the first team.

"Between now and Christmas Liam will always ask for three or four players to step in and train with them once or twice a week, it's the push that they need," he said.

"More importantly it's about getting the right habits and by stepping into the first-team arena, it gives them a chance to show what they can do and more importantly learn what it takes to be a professional."

Having thrashed Redhill 14-0, Fleet's under-18s face East Grinstead in the next round of the FA Youth Cup on Thursday at Stonebridge Road (kick-off 1930 BST).