Out fringe players' fitness...

It seems that our Under 23 games are now solely being used to test development squad players and give them time on the pitch to improve. Also there have been stacks of trialists recently.

So where are the likes of Elliot Lee, Nick Townsend, Adam Jackson, James Bree and a few others who aren't getting regular minutes in the first team getting their match fitness from? Does anybody know whether we are arranging behind closed doors friendlies and the like?

For me, it's another argument for scrapping Development Leagues and bringing back the open age Reserve Leagues, particularly now there are no short-term loans for these lads to go out and play.

 

We did have a friendly behind closed doors over the international break. I'm pretty sure Hecky said it in his pre-game press conference, I think it was in reference to James Bree's fitness saying that he'd come through that game fine. I'm sure he said we'd played United not sure which one

 

Nick Townsend played on Monday against Cardiff for the 23s. 1-0 away win.

 

I've been thinking this for some time. There are quite a few "first team" players who can't even get on the bench on match day, never mind get on the pitch.

Not only is it soul-destroying for them but they aren't getting match fit. It's a problem at every club, I'm sure - senior players alongside juniors and trialists, all hoping to get the call that will probably never come. On the other hand though, either Marc or Angus could get crocked for some time (or suspended for three matches) which will open up a place for either Rodgriguez or Jackson. Obviously not wishing that to happen of course, but anything can happen, any game.

The alternative view is that some players are happy not taking any risks and picking up their pay cheque. It's a sad state of affairs if any footballer feels that way, but I'm sure there are plenty.