New First Team Coach Craig Short has made an instant impact at Oxford United and on Tuesday night looks to help the U’s through in the EFL Trophy when they welcome Chelsea Under 21s to the Kassam Stadium
It is a case of the boot being on the other foot for Craig who joined the U’s after a spell in charge of Derby County’s under 23 side:
“I’ve been in charge of under 23 sides so I do understand that Football League sides have other priorities sometimes” he told iFollow “but at Derby we weren’t involved for a couple of years and then the first year we took part it was really good for our lads because under 23s football sometimes comes in for a little bit of criticism for not being competitive and this competition gives them a chance to show that side of their game against proven professionals.
“So it was vital for Academy progression and for our players here at Oxford, on Tuesday we are playing against players who will be loaned out to top clubs this season or next and who are technically among the very best players. They recruit from all over the world so it is going to be a great test.
“Bear in mind we have a young side here ourselves and we are looking to develop them all the time. I like that aspect of the game. I want to give them that bit extra and try and help them, but they will also all be determined to show what they can do.
“ Wimbledon were very well organised on Saturday and we couldn’t break them down so those who play on Tuesday should be looking to nail down a place in the team for Saturday at Lincoln. It is an opportunity for all of them”
See much more of this interview in iFollow riight now where you can also see the whole game LIVE for just £10