Bates has struggled to maintain a fully-fit side

Newcastle Falcons interim coach Steve Bates has admitted his side has suffered from injuries to key players.

Bates' young team were beaten 32-13 by Wasps at Kingston Park on Wednesday and the former England Saxons coach was left to rue their inexperience.

"We have four internationals injured and that goes to explain why we've moved in the direction we're in," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"It's difficult for the young players to come out and perform like that."

There have been many positives from the young Falcons such as Rob Miller, Phil Dawson and Alex Tait throughout the season but Bates is realistic about their influence in bruising and intense top flight rugby.

"As we tired in the second half and put some more of our youngsters on the pace of the game told and we left a few holes," he said.

"Next year with the internationals away we will be faced with a very young and inexperienced backline for 10 or 11 games.

"Despite the fact they were fantastic today, it will be difficult."