Hutch return would be last resort
By Adam Summers
Tuesday 27th July 2010
IAN Hutchinson has indicated that a return to action will
only be considered as a last resort.
The Weymouth boss, who turns 38 in November, is backing his
charges to turn a corner in this evening’s friendly at
Wimborne Town but has not discounted the possibility of pulling
his boots on again should performances fail to improve.
So far Hutchinson has resisted the temptation to add to his
558 appearances for the club but, following two disappointing
displays from his side in last week’s draws at Bridport
and Portland United, there have been calls for a possible
return.
However, the midfielder remains 100 per cent behind his players
and still believes they have the ability to step up to Zamaretto
Premier Division level.
Hutchinson said: “With Wimborne having won promotion
last year to Zamaretto Division One South & West, tonight
is an opportunity for the players to show a reaction and prove
they are capable of stepping up to this standard.
“It is true that I have had a few people whisper in
my ear about the possibility of me going out and playing again
but that is the last thing I want to do.
“I want the boys to go out there and take their chance
and tonight they need to step up to the plate and show what
they are made of.
“However, if an older head is required to help pull
people around then playing myself is something I might consider.
“It is in the back of the mind but it is also a step
I want to avoid if possible. I have been keeping myself fit
but I am not getting any younger and have not got the strongest
of ankles in the world so it will only be something we do
if needs must.”
The Magpies, who are managed by ex-Terras’ captain Alex
Browne, will no doubt be a tough nut to crack and Hutchinson
has warned his men to expect a very competitive encounter.
He added: “I am good friends with Alex and his assistant
Darren Powell and they have a very good side, who will provide
a big test for us, so it is definitely a game where the lads
will have to step up to the plate and deliver.”
Unfortunately, Hutchinson is likely to be without defender
Simon Radcliffe and trialist Cheol Min-Kim this evening due
to injury.
He said: “There is just no point in risking them at
this stage although I have spoken to a couple of other players
and there is a chance we could have a couple of new faces
in the squad tonight, which I think we need.
“However, we have been let down a few times already
this summer so until we see them turn up there is no point
in naming names.”
Terras (from): Manley, Weeks, Tribe, Welch, Dixon, Oldring,
Clarke, MacGookin, Reiffer, McKechnie, Ironside, Halloran,
Emati-Emati, Charles, Whyton, Kemble, Marshallsay, Litherland.
* Bridport will entertain Portland United at St Mary’s
Field tonight (7.45pm).
