Quarterly Report

www.clydefc.co.uk spoke with Colin Hendry as he reflected on the first quarter of the season and looked forward to the challenges ahead…

“I have to say I’m more pleased now than I was a few weeks ago! At the beginning of the season, some of the squad were concerned at the lack of players coming in and the effect that playing with younger, inexperienced kids would have on them. Circumstances meant we were well behind other clubs in terms of bringing in players but we have since strengthened the squad accordingly and things are looking better now.

“Also, I am now in a better position as well. For the first time we have had true competition for places of late. I can now make decisions before and during a game based on tactics and not availability.

“On occasions earlier on in the season we had just been desperate to make up the numbers. I had to field youngsters well before they should have been near the first team; that wasn’t fair on them and it was far from ideal in such a competitive league.

“We have had some lows – most notably against Partick and Raith – but we have came back well. However, I’m acutely aware that I will be judged on where Clyde are at the end of the season, not before.”

Colin continued, “There is much work to be done, not least in stopping the amount of goals we concede. It was interesting to note that around 40% of goals lost this term have been when we have been a man down. That needs to stop and will be addressed.

“I can assure fans though that we are not static. During the international break we will have a match with SPL opposition to keep the players match fit and it will also give me a further opportunity to look at some more trialists in action. I’ve met with the new Chairman at least four times now and at the top of our agenda is enhancing the core of players we need to kick on.

“At the start I was surprised at the negativity which spread through the whole camp but last Saturday demonstrated we are playing with greater confidence and enthusiasm. I have faith that, with the fans backing, we can do the club proud this season.”