Gary Caldwell previews Eastleigh friendly

Gary Caldwell pre-Eastleigh interview

Gary Caldwell has given his thoughts ahead of City's final - and only home - pre-season friendly as they take on Eastleigh at St James Par on Saturday. 

The Spitfires head to Devon as the Grecians ramp up preparations for the League One season that begins next weekend when Rotherham United visit EX4. After a pre-season where several younger players have featured in the line-ups, Caldwell has hinted at strength in Saturday's team.

"We have to remember we are preparing for a ten month season and not just one game - the Rotherham game will take care of itself."
Gary Caldwell on his Eastleigh team selection

"We will pick players who need minutes and pick combinations that we want to look at moving forward, but most first team players will player and have minutes. 

"Some players like Ben Purrington, Fitzy, Sweens, Jack McMillan, have had plenty of minutes and don't need minutes, but other players that have missed out like Jack Aitchison and Reece Cole do need minutes so we will look at each player individually and those combinations. 

"Then it's a full week's training and it's Rotherham - and we understand we will have to pick a team. I've not had to drop anyone yet! But every player will contribute, even if it isn't in the first game."

Hear from Gary: