More players will leave, says Holleran

Scott Lycett became the latest player to head out, joining Evo-Stik Northern League Division One South side Sutton Coldfield Town on a month’s loan prior to their FA Trophy clash with Rugby Town last Saturday.

The right-back joins Ben Mackey, who is at Stratford, in trying to gain valuable minutes on the pitch elsewhere in order to boost fitness, while Kyle Cartwright has already left Brakes after finding opportunities limited.

And with the likes of Tom Berwick, Michael Tuohy and Jimmy Husband all failing to get off the bench on Saturday, Holleran accepts it may not be long before other players follow the trio out.

“You always lose one or two along the way,” said Holleran.

“It’s hard when you haven’t a reserve or under-21 side, but we need a good squad.

“Craig Owen had to bide his time and has taken his opportunity while Alex Taylor has been in and out, but came back for the last two games and has done better.

“Players need to show a bit of character and when they do get the 20 or 45 minutes they need to show us what they can do.

“I do get a lot of interest in the players from other clubs, but my job is to keep everyone happy.

“On top of that I also need to keep an eye on the figures.

“As well as being a social worker I also need to be an accountant, but I’m aware players just want to play.”

Lycett’s departure follows on from a shoulder injury sustained in a work accident and Holleran believes the benefits of loaning out the 24-year-old far outweigh the alternatives.

“We got Scott back involved because he’s been good for us.

“We wanted to get him back to a certain level of fitness before we loaned him out.

“It’s an ongoing injury and he needs to build his confidence by playing games.

“We’ve got a lot of defenders at the club and I’d rather him away playing games than sat in the stands.”

Holleran will also have Stephan Morley available for the home clash with Bashley tomorrow, but the defender may struggle to force his way past Asa Charlton, who deputised at left-back in the 0-0 draw with Brackley last Saturday.

And, following on from a tight encounter with Jon Brady’s side, Holleran is expecting much of the same against Bashley, who sit just two points behind Brakes having played a game less.

“They’re one of the most stubborn sides in the division,” added Holleran.

“They’re not adventurous, they just sit in, frustrate and are dangerous at set plays.

“They’ve had a half-decent start and it will be a tough game.

“But we’re at home and we’re not far from where we want to be so it’s our job to get after them.”