It’s no coincidence that we had two midfielders on the bench (plus Osborne) for an away game? Just a lucky/unfortunate coincidence that MGW had to go off injured and both midfielders on the bench got game time.
Supporters have bemoaned the lack of choices available in midfield for long enough. Now it seems even poorly performing players like Norwood, Fleck and Hourihane have been infected by Hecky’s enthusiasm and tactical nous.
We had the luxury of being able to give minutes to two players who clearly need chances to impress, even if it might be for different reasons.
Berge might want to be eased back in slowly, and the same caution will apply to Fleck. Berge might want a shop window to get a move, or he might be happy enough with staying put.
The good thing is, listening to Hecky, the first team squad will all get chances to impress.
The rest of December looks promising, January is a chance to consolidate our status, and February promises more fireworks against decent opposition.
I’m the meantime, worst case scenario, MGW might be recalled, suspensions and yellow cards are mounting up, and further injuries could stall our push.
Right now, the gods of the game seem to be smiling on the manager.