I believe our expectations of players are sometimes a bit too harsh. As supporters we expect them to be fit, capable and available for selection.
We need to remember that they are all very different, and in many cases they are managing their own expectations quite differently.
Brewster has shown some evidence of his potential, weighted by a very high fee for a young player. RND is an academy graduate, who made it to first XI group.
Osula has taken a slightly different path to Jebbo, but again has potential.
Injuries and form come into it, and despite the decent financial rewards, none of them seem to be swinging the lead. Older players reaching the later stages of their shelf life are also viewed differently, based on their contributions in the past.
I’m guilty of this too, especially with players like Bash, Billy, Norwood, Fleck and Stevens. All getting to the latter stages of their career, just when Doyle and McAtee are not available for the FA Cup semi final, and injuries now compound Hecky’s selection dilemma.
If the older more experienced players are selected at league or cup level, which one can be relied on to make a stand out performance?
Which wing backs to pick. Who gets to start in the back 3. Will our midfield let us down?
Is one player waiting in the wings to prove a point? They all wish they could have the same impact as Ndiaye.
One thing is certain, they will all get a chance to prove their worth in the remaining league and cup games.
I favour a team with potential in the cup, and a few surprise picks to upset the opposition at league level. PH cannot afford to be predictable in any games we have left. That’s just asking for trouble.
While no player over 30 has a divine right to the shirt, I expect Norwood to turn up when picked, and a Hat trick from Billy in the Cup game against city.
Do not dismiss any player based on expectations like transfer fee, or their place in the academy pecking order.
