Edwards says opportunities are there to be taken for younger lads
Exeter City assistant manager Rob Edwards praised the performance of a young Grecians side for their performance against Buckland Athletic – and explained that they will get all the opportunities they deserve in the forthcoming campaign if they’re up for the challenge.
A Tom Nichols brace gave Exeter City a 2-0 win against the Bucks at Homers Heath, and Robbo was encouraged by the performance from the Exeter lads despite the scorching conditions in Newton Abbot. Some of those involved against the Western League side may even by handed some minutes against Swansea for the Sunday 3pm game.
“It was a difficult day with the heat, but the players did very well,” began Rob. “They got a bit tired and there were some strange decisions on the ball in the second half, but they did really well.
“We try to play a game where the ball gets rotated through the team and we did well.”
In keeping with tradition, Edwards is keen to make sure that the talent in the squad doesn’t fall by the wayside and get every chance to make a successful career. With a relatively small City squad this season, places in matchday squads are up for grabs and he revealed that any players that are primed to be involved in first-team affairs will get their opportunities.
“We’re constantly trying to push them because we’re trying to get them closer to the first team.
“The facts are, if they’re ready, then they’ll play and be involved in the team,” he continued. “It’s a great chance for them. If their game is ready, they will be part of Exeter’s first-team squad.
“The onus is on them to get their game up to scratch to be in the squad. Not all clubs are like that – at some clubs, players are good enough but don’t get a chance. So it’s a great opportunity for those guys in that dressing room – if they’re good enough, they will start games this season.
“They’ve got to make sure they’re ready, that they’re fit enough, and that they do the right things.”