Northampton Town boss Kevin Nolan is relishing an unusual but welcome selection dilemma as his side prepare to face League One leaders Birmingham City on Saturday.
After weeks of injury concerns, the Cobblers manager now has the luxury of choosing from a near full-strength squad, with several players returning to fitness. The improved squad depth meant some players were left out of the matchday squad entirely in last weekend’s 2-1 win over Leyton Orient.
Manchester City Man Returns
One of those returning faces is Manchester City loanee Luke Mbete, who could make his first matchday squad appearance since October. The young defender recently recovered from a hamstring injury and played a full 90 minutes in a behind-closed-doors match on Tuesday.
“We’re looking good,” said Nolan this week. “It’s great because I’m now getting headaches and I don’t know who to even put on my bench. Luke Mbete is getting his minutes up but we have to make sure we do it right. Ali Koiki’s now had a full 90 but these lads have been out for a long time so we’ll slowly bring them in to make sure they stay fit.”
With Northampton aiming to keep their momentum going, the behind-closed-doors matches have played a crucial role in ensuring returning players regain match sharpness.
Competition for Places Intensifies
Nolan also highlighted the impact of his squad’s increasing depth, admitting that some players will now struggle to make the bench due to strong competition for places.
“Those behind-closed-doors games are really important to get minutes in their legs and for them to show their attitude,” he added. “We can’t replicate a Saturday, but it’s the closest thing we can get to it and it’s an opportunity for the lads to show they are ready to go.
“We’ve had setbacks with Jon Guthrie and Liam Shaw, but other lads have come in and taken their opportunity. I’ve got players who aren’t even making the bench now and that’s great, and I hope they keep pushing each other.”
Writer’s View
Nolan’s growing squad options are a significant boost for Northampton Town as they enter a crucial phase of the season. Competition for places will only improve performance levels, and the manager’s ‘headaches’ are the kind every coach wants. With Birmingham City standing in their way, this weekend’s game will be a real test of the Cobblers’ depth and resilience.
