By Alex Hoad

Chatham boss Alex O’Brien plans to give youth a chance before the end of the season as he looks to build solid foundations for 2010-11 and beyond.

The Chats have fallen away from the Ryman League Division 1 South play-off race, but O’Brien insists he wants his side to complete the season as strongly as possible and try to ensure a top 10 finish.

Last Saturday’s much-needed 2-1 win over Whyteleafe, courtesy of two goals from 18-year-old debutant Jack Pallen, pictured, propelled Chatham into 12th.

O’Brien said: "We want to finish as high as possible, get this season over with and then look towards next season.

"Before the end of the season I’d like to introduce a couple of under-18 players like Tom Hill and Ryan Laker. I want to get them experience.

"We are not going to throw them in at the deep end just yet, but it would be good for them to come along on match day, warm up with the senior players and see what it’s all about."

Chatham visit mid-table Ramsgate on Saturday before a home clash with promotion-chasing Godalming on Tuesday.

Richard Avery is Chatham’s only absentee as he recovers from a severely bruised foot.