The AFC Wimbledon defensive duo have put themselves back in contention for first-team places after successfully coming through a behind-closed-doors friendly on Tuesday.
The welcome sight of central defender Paul Kalambayi, and right-back Huseyin Biler starting the game against a Brentford side will give manager Johnnie Jackson a potential selection headache as the pair get stronger in the coming weeks.
So far the Wimbledon defence has been fairly solid, and they have helped the Dons challenge at the top end of the table, only losing two league games so far.
With the notorious winter months coming, and the inevitable injuries and possible suspensions, the timing of the two players couldn’t be better. Biler was the favoured choice towards the end of last season but suffered an injury which he is now getting the better of.
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Talking to the club’s Official Website he said “It’s been difficult but we’re grinding and we’re back now. Everything still feels normal. The team is doing well so we’re just being patient. We’re playing great football this season but it’s been tough to watch being a player that wants to be out there because of the passion we have for the game. Patience is key.”
Kalambayi has had his fair share of injuries and is hopeful that coming back from this one will be the last time he sees the treatment room for a while. After seven months away from action because of knee surgery, he is eager to get back in contention.
“I had to top up my minutes as it’s been a while since I played 90. I feel great, I feel myself and feel even fitter. The team is doing great, we’ve got a big squad and we’ve got healthy competition. That’s what’s pushing us.
“The competition is high in training, which is reflected in the games. I’ve been watching our games and analysing how we play. Everyone understands how we want to play. I’ve even been watching away games on my iPad and enjoying it – obviously I want to be playing.”
Writer’s View
Injuries are part of the game, but when you’ve fought so hard to earn your place through the Academy system to lose out to one can be hard. Credit the AFC Wimbledon staff for working hard with two players who deserve their shot at getting back into first-team football. It will be hard though as the current backline at Wimbledon has been very good and is a main reason why they have had a good start to the season. Should Kalambayi and Biler get back into the first team, they will have done so through hard work and merit.