SIMON GRAYSON will send a Huddersfield Town development side into action against Middlesbrough this afternoon with the message: “Catch my eye.”
The game at the Championship club’s training ground will provide the perfect chance for returning midfield trio Tommy Miller, Damien Johnson and Oscar Gobern to build up sharpness.
But the boss will also be running the rule over youngsters like Greg Pearson, Aidan Chippendale and Chris Atkinson as he looks to the long term.
Grayson, confident Town will overturn their recent dip and cement a League I play-off berth by beating Scunthorpe at the Galpharm on Saturday, said: “It’s an important game today.
“It’s a chance for the likes of Tommy, Damien and Oscar to build up match fitness and show they’re ready to return.
“Tommy and Damien are both experienced players who can handle the ball and handle the big occasions.
“And while Oscar has had a frustrating season injury wise, he’s shown he has composure and great energy levels.
“We’re coming to a key stage of the season, with three more league games and hopefully three more in the play-offs, and we want as many fit players available as possible.
“Any member of the squad could have a part to play, especially after a run like we’ve had (three straight defeats and four in five).
“It’s not just about what players do or don’t do in matches, it’s about working hard in training and showing the necessary desire and determination.
“Obviously our recent results haven’t been what we would have wanted, but we’re still in a good position and in with a great chance of promotion.
“The players know that, and there’s a buzz about the place because they want to be involved in what is to come.”
Town, who also have to go to Walsall (Saturday week) and host Yeovil (Saturday, May 5), need three more points to be sure of a play-off place.
