TROWBRIDGE Town boss Neil Kirkpatrick has mixed feelings about striker Matt Cooper's call-up into the Wiltshire youth squad.

The 16-year-old hotshot was a late inclusion in Mel Gingell's squad to face Suffolk in the quarter-final of the County Youth Cup, leaving Kirkpatrick without his services for Trowbridge's trip to Purton.

Last season Cooper was playing for Trowbridge Youth, but after bursting onto to the first team, seven goals in 18 appearances could see him make his Wiltshire debut tomorrow.

Kirkpatrick said: "Obviously hearing that we will be without him is a blow to our preparations for the Purton game. But the call-up is definitely deserved as he has been unbelievable for us since stepping up from the youth team.

"Dave Percival has been heavily marked in recent weeks and this has allowed Matt the chance to show what he can do.

"He was always very good facing goal but what he has improved enormously is holding the ball up. I think he has learnt from Dave Percival and Dave Mitchell."

The Hellenic League Division One West leaders could also be without Waleed Bakali, who may have to work, but Kirkpatrick admits he is getting used to having to change the side.

He said: "I have not been able to name the same side in two consecutive games once this season which obviously is not ideal. But we are still top of the league and I think this shows we have good strength in depth at the club."