The season continues into 2014 and not only are points becoming ever elusive, but it seems hardly a week goes by without another injury to our already depleted squad. And so it is off to Nottingham Forest for a 3rd round FA Cup tie this weekend. You don’t have to be Einstein to work out that this game is definitely not one that Sam wants at this stage of the season. For the fans of a club like ours, Cup glory is all we have to play for each season if we have any illusions of winning anything. But of course, the other problem for Sam is we are already in a two legged semi-final of the League Cup against Manchester City and both games are scheduled for this month. That means seven games in just twenty eight days with a squad that is already stretched to the limit. I really do not think that Sam wants another Cup run on his plate?
However, if you are a half glass full sort of guy, this is a great opportunity at a time when we have so many youngsters that are knocking the door down to be given a chance. This weekends game also presents an opportunity to play, God forbid – TWO strikers! It could be even a time to play three at the back? The game against Forest should be used as a “free hit” to offer the line up of players who so far Sam has said “are not good enough” – “not experienced enough”. Much like Arsenal have done in the past to blood their young talent in the League Cup, they should also be told that they retain their places in the next Cup game should they win. Sometimes opportunities are taken at the least likely of times, and gems are produced when least expected.
Throw in a few recognised players to help steady the ship and who knows what might transpire? If Sam shuns this opportunity he is walking away from his responsibilities to nurture our young talent. A possible line up should look something like this; Adrian, Chambers, Ruddock, Diarra, Potts, Collison, Morrison, J Cole, Moncur, Lee, Maiga or Gordon. Oh, and by the way Sam – tell them to go for it!