When I saw the teamsheet yesterday I was a little confused. With all the talk of being 'ruthless' and that there will be 'consequences' for players I was expecting a surprise or two.
What I actually got was:
Brayford for Freeman (which was expected when he returned)
Edgar at the back - (which was expected when he returned)
JCR for an injured Baxter
Coutts for Reed (expected)
Done for Adams (The only 'ruthless' thing that may have happened)
I realise Adkins is very limited in the changes he can make but these changes were neither ruthless nor signified consequences. A bit odd really.
I agree entirely . When Adkins said there will be consequences i was thinking is that a knee jerk comment or will we see a whole load of changes.
I take the point about limited options but we still do have a big squad again accepting we have some injuries .
So what can we read into his comment and actions / what do we know from his post Barnsley comments
1) he sees long as the current number 1. To concede 4 and still play there can be no other conclusion surely.
2) Baxter is injured or would have played I think
3) anyone who is on the fringe and fit might as well pack in now. Flynn ?? See below
4) Kieron Wallace must have done something wrong or has an injury
5) Diego is finished under Adkins
6) we either can't or he does not believe recalling any loan players is worth it .
7) he is confused by Collins . Takes him off at half time against Shrewsbury town leaving some blades fans thinking he's finished at the lane but then plays him again.
8) billy sharp and dean Hammond must have start clauses in their contract. For league games of course. Please let me just say I didn't go yesterday and here Hammond did well which is pleasing that he might at last be showing why there was so much fuss... Plus .. I like billy sharp and looking at highlights he got into some great positions but he's bang out of form .
9) and to the big one ... He clearly feels we are still in this ... Promotion that is ... Which is why he hasn't been as radical as he implied or some thought. He's made the comments in the heat of the moment after Shrewsbury then thought about it thinking I can't change all 11 ... Well actually he could only have have changed 9 !!