AN air of optimism has been sweeping through the corridors of Feethams this week.

Caretaker boss Mick Tait has instilled some much-needed confidence into a resurgent Quakers side now hungry for success.

Tait's decision to opt for a youthful central midfield pairing of Ashley Nicholls and Clark Keltie turned many heads, especially as it was at the expense of the experienced duo Mark Ford and Neil Maddison.

But the duo have formed what looks to be an exciting new partnership and Keltie in particular is beginning to turn heads.

The 19-year-old, who only two seasons ago was plying his trade in the Tyneside Junior league with Walker Central, was given his chance to impress in Tommy Taylor's final game at Stockport in the LDV Vans Trophy last week.

And impress he did, so much so that Tait has kept faith with the youngster in his first two games in charge.

Keltie endeared himself to the Feethams crowd with a man-of-the-match performance in his full home debut in Tuesday night's 1-1 draw with Scunthorpe.

And skipper Craig Liddle agreed the boy from Newcastle can become a great player.

"He's got fantastic potential," he said. "He's got a great attitude, he's a fit lad and he gets about the pitch.

"He's not frightened to put his foot in and he can pass the ball around as well. He's got everything."

Liddle also admitted the mood among the players has been positive since Tait's appointment last week.

"With Mick coming in the lads have had a bit of a lift," said Liddle.

"We've worked a little bit harder on the sharpness side of things, getting a little bit extra in our fitness.

"I think it's paying off, especially in midfield. We are dominating teams whereas before maybe we weren't."

* Fans who boycotted Wimbledon matches following the decision to relocate to Milton Keynes insist Tuesday night's record low attendance at Selhurst Park is indicative of the ''nosedive in confidence'' in the club.

The Dons' match at home to Rotherham attracted an official attendance of just 849, the lowest ever for a First Division match and the third lowest in Football League history.

And Wimbledon Independent Supporters' Association vice chairman Lee Willett believes the club are in deep trouble.

He said: ''Charles Koppel says the club must move forward, but the crowd last night shows they're in reverse."

Read more about the Quakers here.