Spots up for grabs in United’s pre- season trial

NORTH Queensland United coach Michael Brooks says versatility will be a big factor in what players make the final cut for the club’s maiden National Premier League campaign.

NQU gets its pre- season schedule underway with a trial on the road against fellow newcomers Cairns FC today, with several spots in Brooks’ squad still there for the taking.

The club announced Townsville Brothers 2017 premiership- winning pair Mat- thew Richards and Matthew Miller as new signing this week, along with young defender Mitchell Maher.

Brooks plans to finalise his squad when the two clubs meet in a return leg at Townsville next Saturday.

“There’s definitely a few spots up for grabs,” Brooks said.

“It’s slowly starting to take shape but there’s some guys I’m using the weekend for to see if they can match it with the speed and intensity of the NPL, and the other things that go along with it.”

Players able to fill a variety of positions could give themselves a selection edge when the full squad is settled.

“I like to have players who can play multiple positions, so if we have injuries we can adapt,” Brooks said.

“Some of the guys over the weekend will get that opportunity to show their versatility by getting time in multiple positions. Every spot’s up for grabs because at the end of the day, I’m still working out what my best team might be.”

NQU will also play a trial against Townsville Brothers on Thursday, January 25.