Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher says the threat posed by youngsters like Rodrigo Possebon, Danny Welbeck and Darron Gibson are driving the senior players on this season.
Ahead of tonight's Carling Cup quarterfinal against Blackburn Rovers, Fletcher said: "The enthusiasm these young lads bring inspires you.
"Obviously you have to take a bit more responsibility but these young lads will be out there trying to impress.
"They will drive you on with their youthful exuberance and attitude towards the game.
"The professionalism within our squad means that whoever is included for that game will be right up for it. No matter who they are, players have to show they are good enough to be in the team every time they play.
"No-one can rest on their laurels because there are top quality players waiting to take your place if they don't perform."
In all probability, Fletcher's services will not be required.
Neither will Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Dimitar Berbatov or Ballon D'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo be called upon as United chase a semi-final spot.
The experience will come from John O'Shea, Anderson, Nani and Ben Foster, while Carlos Tevez seems certain to be involved after being left on the bench at Manchester City on Sunday.
"There could be 15 senior players not involved but we will all turn up and cheer the other lads on," Fletcher continued.
"We all watch the game and we all go into the dressing room beforehand to offer some words of encouragement.
"That is what this club is all about. No-one wants to put anybody down. We want to see the club progress and that means reaching finals."