Udinese coach Francesco Guidolin was pleased with his shadow team in their 1-1 draw with Europa League opponents Celtic.
His youngsters fought back late on with a soft Almen Abdi penalty to earn a 1-1 draw.
"I knew we'd be criticised before and, in case of defeat, after the game for choosing to field so many young players," said Guidolin.
"We have to interpret the Europa League this way and the performance proved us right. Sending so many youngsters out in these arenas is our project.
"We're certainly not trying to snub the competition. Our position in the group is good, but we need at least 10 points to qualify, maybe even more."