Met Police’s young cup heroes have been tied down to club contracts to prevent a repeat of striker Tane Caubo’s exit to LEague Two Barnet, writes Stuart Amos.

The Blues’ youth team reached the third round of the FA Youth Cup last week to set up a dream trip to Former Premier League side Burnley at Turf Moor.

Caubo, who remains at Imber Court on a dual registration, switched to the north London Bees earlier this season after impressing talent scouts.

But the Blues were powerless to demand a fee for their efforts as the teenager was not under contract with the Ryman PRemier League side.

Young midfielders Luke Robertson and Ethan Chislett, stars of the U18s’ cup run, among those youngster to have signed deals with the club to warn off would be suitors.

And Cooper believes the move puts his side in a win-win situation.

“Although he is still able to play for the youth team, we were really disappointed to have lost Tane,” he said this week.

“We have now put quite a few of the young lads on contracts to protect our investment.

“Hopefully they will move on to pro clubs one day and if they do we will then be entitled to compensation.

“If they don’t there is every chance they will play for our first team, so we cannot really lose.

Cooper’s men host National League South Wealdstone on Saturday for a chance to reach the first round of the FA Trophy, which would also land the Blues $£4,000 in prize money.

Tuesday’s Ryman Premier League defeat to Tonbridge Angels was not exactly the best preparation for the tie with Cooper labelling his team’s efforts as woeful.

They will face a tough test at the weekend, but the manager believes his side can draw inspiration from the exploits of the club’s juniors.

“I was really quite pleased with the draw because we know we have a chance at home,” added Cooper.

“We can take inspiration from the youth team.

“The whole club is buzzing and the senior squad were absolutely delighted by their result.

“It has given everyone a lift. Anything is possible.”