Think we are really starting to see the strength in depth of this squad. We may not have been perfect last night. But with Morsy, Evans, Aluko,, Leigh, Ahadme, and KVY all unavailable and Camara and Burgess slightly undercooked. We are still able to field a strong side and bench. Other sides, most notably Portsmouth and Derby are already starting to feel the pace, with injury hit squads. I looked at last night's team sheet before kick off and thought, "yeah, that'll do it". And so it proved. There's always going to be a bit of luck involved with a promotion push. Injuries, suspensions, playing teams at the right time, etc.. But with 6 of our players out injured and a couple not quite ready. Last nights result, away from home. Was a really good three points ticked off. In some ways, more of a statement, than rolling a team over 3-0 with a fully fit squad, imo. I remember the fixtures coming out in the Summer. And straight away thought December was going to be a challenging month. If we can stay in the top two or three through December, with one or two long term injuries coming back into the squad, and the possibility of adding in January if absolutely needed. Then we are going to be in really good shape for the final push. A word on Humphreys.. I was always pleased that we didn't loan him out at the beginning of the season after some decent cameo appearances last season. I thought he'd be useful to use in "easier" games, that would aid his development. And sort of saw him , as a small cog in the big machine. I'm not one of those that will be demanding he starts ahead of everyone else, now, based on last night. Albeit a really good full debut for the lad. But , he has definitely shown, that he's capable of coming in and performing to a level that wont weaken us. Which is so reassuring as a supporter. When we've had youngsters on the bench in previous seasons, that haven't filled me with as much confidence. After last night, it feels to me, as if we've just signed another quality player to add to the squad depth... A reliable, medium sized cog, if you like. Hopefully this will help to push a few others to a higher level, with the extra , proven, competition , now.. Great scenes last night after the match, and some really honest and heart felt words on Humphreys from KM. I actually felt quite emotional with KM's reaction. Some genuine joy and happiness for Humphreys. Hopefully this sort of thing will encourage some of our other youth players, that there is a pathway here for them. If they work hard and want to be here. |  |