Stroud Sport
John Light's exclusive online Forest Green column
4:36pm Monday 6th February 2012
CONGRATULATIONS to James Turley, Eddie Oshodi and Kieron Forbes.
Never before has FGR had three representatives in the England 'C' XI. Chosen from the pick of non-league players the selection is an honour, not just to the players but to the club, and management.
Turley came from Salisbury, Forbes from Wealdstone, and Oshodi was without a club. David Hockaday and his team saw their potential and brought them to the New Lawn and we all know how well they have responded to coaching and more importantly the opportunity to play regular first team football. They are all three young players with the ability and attitude to improve.
It is going to be exciting watching them. We must not forget Matty Taylor. He is on standby. From North Leigh to England via Forest Green. What a journey! In only six months!
Our journey to the end of the season may be just as exciting. Manager David looking forward, and talking of the matches still to come, spoke bravely. We are going to give it a real go - we are going all out to win each one - that was the essence of his message.
Since the dire day at Newport that depressed all of us, this is exactly what the team has done. The Wrexham and Fleetwood matches were performances for us to enjoy and the team to be proud of.
I write in anticipation of the games against Luton (February 11) and Gateshead (February 19). There are still contractual issues to be settled, so some fringe players have much to play for.
I hope Luton include Stuart Fleetwood. He was a hero of mine at FGR. Jim Harvey arranged the team around him, and kept the same system when Andy Mangan arrived.
In Mark Beesley, Rovers had just the player to bring out the best in Stuart. To see them playing together was a joy.
I am not sure if any of his other clubs have used Stuart in such a way. It will be interesting assessing his role on Saturday. If he plays in a 4-5-1 formation, with him as the striker - look out!
Many fellow fans expect James Bittner to go out on loan, or to move permanently to another club. It is not that easy. James has firstly to be wanted and then the pursuing club has to be able to afford him. A hard look at this season's form means James, good as we know he can be may not be top of anyone's shopping list. He may settle for staying at FGR for the remainder of his contract, and all the time hoping to win his place back. Not many players have that security, but for services rendered (last season) James deserves it.
Is the signing of Jamie Collins, from Aldershot the missing link? The left- side midfield position has not been filled satisfactorily all season. Curtis McDonald, despite his versatility never seemed the answer and the temporary stay of loanee Andy Sandell solved nothing. We shall have our first chance to make a judgement on Saturday. My view is an experienced left-sided player is just what we need.
There will be plenty of opportunity for next season's squad to come together in the next few weeks. We know the majority are already here. There are still questions marks over loan man Henderson, but one thing is certain - when the squad come together for the start of next season the manager will have exactly who he wants. Pre-season training will be more effective than before. I am excited at what will follow.
There will be one absentee on Saturday. FGR/BBC radio commentator Bob Hunt will not be in attendance. Bob, a larger than life character is playing the dame in the Berkeley Drama Society pantomime. Always throwing himself enthusiastically into anything he does. I am sure he will give a memorable performance.
I close by a mention of chairman Dale, not one that is football related, because we all know what he has done for the club.
This time it is Dale, the businessman. Ecotricity is now the biggest employer in Stroud. Those currently knocking green energy should think of those who have to provide the alternative, digging for coal or living next to a nuclear power station. I hope in a football column that I can say DV has the right idea and is in the right place. We need him. Now for Luton! Now for Ashington. A in Nailsworth to savour.
I end on a non-football matter, but one of considerate Cotswold significance. The fabulous Baker Brothers Wednesday, February 8 - are showing the nation how to cook - Lardy cake. The perfect Cotswold confection is not nationally known and is scarcely available east of Burford. It was the promise of fresh lardy cake every day that helped bring me back to Nailsworth. Now my doctor does not allow me to eat it! Never mind. There is Luton on Saturday and Shortwood Sunday!