Squad ready for big kick off: Jim
STOCKPORT County manager James Gannon says his squad is in good shape with the big National League North kick-off taking place this weekend.
Narrow defeats against Macclesfield, Barrow and Rochdale have been sandwiched between convincing victories over Cheadle Heath Nomads and young Blackburn Rovers and Wigan Athletic sides in preparation for the real thing and Gannon said: “We are moving into a good position with the squad.
“Apart from Adam Thomas and Ryan Ellison, who have been kept out of games due to concerns of aggravating slight knee injuries, we’ve been able to get most of the players a lot of pitch time, so the starting team is taking shape and the group is growing with every game.”
In addition, striker Scott Spencer has returned to Edgeley Park on trial, having decided to put his retirement plans on hold, while former Lancaster skipper Craig Carney has joined on a non-contract basis.
County’s most convincing win of the summer came when they defeated Blackburn Rovers U21 4-1 at Edgeley Park, and Gannon felt that was the best he saw his side play during pre-season.
“We played an extra central midfielder, but this was a positive move as it allowed us to keep the three attackers in very aggressive positions,” said Gannon. “In particular, Danny Lloyd enjoyed the freedom of his new role and was on the end of many of our attacking moves.
“Big Kay Odejayi was a real presence, and with an industrious and lively John Marsden, Blackburn’s defence struggled to contain the front three.
“It was also nice for the fans to see Gary Stopforth in action at Edgeley Park, and his energy and work rate must have been great to watch.
“With Lewis Montrose and Courtney Meppen-Walter also showing real presence in central midfield areas we looked a solid team. We’ve also seen glimpses of the potential football that could be played through the team’s midfield areas.”
The County gaffer was particularly glad to see his side finding the back of the net on four occasions in that match.
He said: “It was very pleasing to get the goals our play deserved, and as the game proceeded it was great to have a good look at our other options.
“Michael Clarke, Glenn Rule and Josh Amis were able to add to their match fitness, and Scott Spencer and Craig Carney showed their potential value to the team.
“A lot of positives came out of the game and I’m relatively pleased with our progress.
“I’ll be pushing hard for the players to maintain their standards and push each other further.
“We have some additional tactics to tidy up and add, including set plays and different attacking options but that will be added in time for the big kick off.”