Northampton Town manager Kevin Nolan has clarified the reasons behind the absence of three senior players from the matchday squad in Saturday’s League One fixture against Blackpool.
While many fans were surprised not to see Akin Odimayo, Tariqe Fosu or Tom Eaves involved at Sixfields, Nolan explained that the decisions were a mix of tactical choices and fitness management.
“Just Selection Decisions” – Nolan on Key Omissions
Odimayo and Fosu were both fully fit and available following their roles in the previous fixture against Birmingham City – Odimayo had come off with a shoulder concern, while Fosu remained an unused substitute – but Nolan opted for other options as competition for places heats up.
“Those were just selection decisions. I thought the lads who were on the bench deserved to be on the bench and that was it. I’ve got to make these decisions because we’ve now got 20, 21 players training.”
The Cobblers boss added that the door remains open for both to return but stressed the importance of players proving themselves on the training ground in order to earn their spots.
“It’s great to have that and now they need to prove to me next week that they want to be playing by doing the right things and if they do that there’ll be an opportunity to get back in the squad.”
As for Eaves, who hasn’t featured since early February, his continued absence was attributed to a cautious approach over his fitness, despite some involvement in training during the week.
“We just didn’t want to push Tom. He has trained in the week but he missed Friday because he was feeling a bit fatigued. But I’m hoping we’ll see him early next week and then for the game at the weekend.”
Despite a 2-0 defeat to Blackpool, Nolan remains positive about the squad’s depth and attitude, suggesting that healthy competition is exactly what’s required as the club navigates a tightly contested League One campaign.
“If you’re not playing, when a team loses, the manager looks at different things so it’s up to them now to apply themselves and show the right attitude and I’m sure they’ll be back in. But I’ve been delighted with the squad and it was just one of those decisions.”
Writer’s View
Kevin Nolan is clearly keen to foster a high-performance culture at Northampton Town, where places are earned rather than guaranteed. His handling of Odimayo, Fosu and Eaves shows a willingness to back form and fitness over reputation.
With the League One season entering its final stretch, competition within the squad could be the driving force behind a strong finish—provided those on the fringes take the challenge head-on.
