Danny Hussey has vowed to ring the changes this weekend after declaring his honeymoon period as Holbeach United boss over.
The Tigers were humbled 3-0 at home against Newport Pagnell Town on Saturday – and Hussey admits that he saw the first Future Lions UCL Premier Division defeat of his tenure coming.
Despite seeing his side reach the UCL Knockout Cup final on Wednesday (see page 35), the boss feels players have dropped their standards in recent weeks and says a few will be surprised when the axe falls on them for the Carter’s Park clash against Rothwell Corinthians on Saturday (3pm).
Hussey said: “I think a few of the lads have got a bit too comfortable. But my honeymoon period is well and truly over now.
“The workrate has dropped off collectively and, if I’m honest, the signs were there that this has been coming.
“I’ve got lads who want to start games that will now get their chance. I think some of the players will be surprised when they lose their shirt on Saturday, but nobody can have any complaints.
“Rothwell will be a tough game. They’ve troubled some of the better sides lately and I know they are bringing some good, young players into the team.
“It’ll be hard, but I’m expecting a response from the players who have been telling me they deserve to start more.”
Hussey is still hopeful of adding to his squad before the transfer deadline at the end of the month and has put a seven-day notice of approach in for Peterborough Norther Star midfielder Jake Sansby.
The Tigers chief admits that he’s short on ball-playing midfielders and would love to snap up the ex-Stamford ace.
He added: “We’re not playing great football. Luke Avis aside, we have no creativity in midfield.
“He can get on the ball and make things happen, which is what I’m after.”
The Tigers have missed out on Wisbech Town’s Aaron Hart, though, with the right-sided midfielder turning down their offer.
However, striker Jonny Lockie should be fit to return against Rothwell.
