Academy manager and head of coaching Neil Redfearn praised the summer signings that have featured in his Under-21s side and believes Adryan could be close to a first senior appearance.

The likes of Adryan and Zan Benedicic have also been involved as they adjust to life in English football.

Del Fabro and Montenegro both played in Monday’s 2-1 win at Bristol City and Redfearn thinks their experiences with the Under-21s will serve them well.

"They did okay, Dario did really well at the back," said Redfearn. "Brian found it a a bit tougher up front but it’s good for them.

"He came up against two strong boys at the back – two seniors boys – and they made life difficult for him.

"But he stuck at it. They’re finding their feet over here and I think it’s great that they do muck in and take part in it.

"I have to say, they’re great kids to work with – lovely kids – and they’ve got bright futures as well."

Adryan did not feature in Monday’s victory, though, and Redfearn thinks the 20-year-old Brazilian has a chance of being in the reckoning for Friday’s trip to Rotherham with the first team.

"You’ll have to ask Darko," he said. "He pulled him out of the squad for whatever reason and we shuffled the pack around a little bit.

"Alex Purver came back into midfield and did really well.

"Adryan sounds like he’s in the fold – whether he starts or not I don’t know – but that’s good news for him."