Caretaker manager Paul Groves has not ruled out handing teenage striker Alex Moth his Bournemouth debut before the season ends.
Moth, who was handed his first professional contract by Groves last week, was included in the matchday squad for the trip to Bury on Saturday but did not feature for the Cherries at Gigg Lane.
However, with resources tight in the forward department at present, Groves has revealed he is considering throwing the youngster in at the deep end in the remaining three games of the term.
He told the club's official website: "In an ideal world he would be integrated over a period of time. People have to realise it's a big jump from the youth team to the first team, that needs to be done gradually and he needs to be in a team that can carry him through the game or periods of it.
"It depends on personnel, fitness levels and the situation but I would never say never.
"Circumstances dictate that certain people get opportunities and, given that opportunity, they can make a name for themselves. I'm looking to try and win as many games as I possibly can and pick the best personnel for those games. If it happens that someone younger gets an opportunity, then so be it because we want to win."
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