Allen delays skipper choice
MANAGER Martin Allen will delay appointing Cheltenham Town's new club captain until the squad return from their Army training camp next month.
Every player will undergo a series of physical and mental tests before physical training instructors compile character profiles on each of them at the Blandford Camp in Dorset between July 22 and 26.
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David Bird is one of the four candidates to be Cheltenham Town captain
Allen will then decide who will be awarded the armband for the new Coca-Cola League Two campaign, which kicks off with a home match against Grimsby Town on August 8.
"We will get character references from the PTIs on all our players to see what they are like in difficult situations, what they are like dealing with stress, strain, tiredness and how they cope," Allen said.
"The players are going to be put in difficult situations. Once we have had that review with the Army bosses, then we will decide who is going to be the captain.
"Of course I have people in mind, but I will be interested to see what the Army think of the characters and personalities we have got."
Allen has as short list of four players who he believes are in contention to succeed John Finnigan as the Robins' skipper.
The long-serving and popular Finnigan, who has been Cheltenham's club captain for the vast majority of his seven years at the club, has been placed on the transfer list by Allen.
Vocal and influential defender Shane Duff is the obvious choice to take over after agreeing a new one-year contract with Cheltenham.
But David Bird, Andy Gallinagh and Michael Townsend are also in with a chance of leading their team out.
"David Bird was a superb captain towards the end of last season and is very calm and composed," Allen said.
"Shane Duff was excellent when he came back into the team and Andrew Gallinagh is steady, calm and consistent so he is another contender.
"Michael Townsend is also in contention because he was superb on and off the field last season."
The most senior member of the squad, Drissa Diallo, often stood in as captain last season, but Allen says it is time to hand a younger player the responsibility.
"Drissa would be in contention, but I think it is time for fresh blood," he said.
26 Comments
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by Paul, Cheltenham
Tuesday, June 30 2009, 8:07AM
“The trouble with this comment board is that it is all to easy to get sucked into a poor argument.
Good example on this one of the "Argumentum ad hominem".”
by diesledog, paddock
Monday, June 29 2009, 4:35PM
“MEEOOW...........he, he!!”
by Tarquin, Voice of CTFC
Monday, June 29 2009, 2:54PM
“Oi Diesledog if you've got so much money why don't you buy the club. Over the weeks I've had the misfortune of reading all the trash you have posted not one intelligent comment. Why don't you get a life and come to terms with the fact you support a poor 4 division club. The sooner you do this the better you will feel.
By the way Diesledog did you get your discount for being an OAP!!!!!”
by diesledog, paddock
Monday, June 29 2009, 11:48AM
“Tarquin, its called discussion, but if you don't like it don't bother coming on here. What ever happens next season we have got MA in charge no matter what you or I think, so just get over it. I held up my hands last year, would YOU be prepared to do the same this time, if proved wrong? In the mean time, just calm down my friend, you'll do yourself an injury!!!”
by Tarquin, Voice of CTFC
Monday, June 29 2009, 8:13AM
“Diesledog your comments get so boring you live in cloud cukoo land. The worst thing ever would you buying a season ticket for someone and them having to listen to your drivel for the next 9 months. Keep your money and your thoughts to yourself.”