Squad Depth

There can be no doubt players returning to the fold and new ones coming in have had a huge impact. Reeco was first; he’s been sensational of late, but Ben House returning to fitness is also a big plus. Then there’s Joe Taylor and Conor McGrandles, two players who feel very much like first-team staples right now, and both who perhaps add something we didn’t have. That said, the back line is maybe more depleted than it was during the tough spell – Jack Burroughs is injured, Adam Jackson too, and both Paudie and Alex Mitchell have been out suspended.

Also, it’s important to acknowledge that not all of our big performers right now are players who were injured or that we’ve signed, so it’s not the sole reason we’ve been on a good run. It’s obvious squad depth helps, and thinking about how Ethan Hamilton’s injury currently isn’t having the sort of impact it would six weeks ago, the new faces were just right in the transfer window.

Also, I’ve got to this point and not mentioned Freddie, who only returned to the bench this week as well. so, whilst we have had some bodies come back, it certainly isn’t the sole reason we’re doing better because we have also lost a few as well. However, the impact of having bodies and options cannot be understated. Remember, Jovon started six of Skubala’s first eight games in charge – no slur on Jovon, but now he’s only getting a run out because Freddie is injured.