TT PREVIEW

Chris Wade – @tufcchris

EVER CHANGING GULLS

The start of this season has not been what we all expected. With the departure of Jordan Young, that is three player sales in the last 10 days. Whilst that is very positive on the financial front, it has left some unexpected gaps in the squad that need to be filled. And quickly when you are trying to put together a squad that is capable of mounting a serious title challenge. We have seen the debuts of Jacob Beaumont-Clark (what a goal that was at the weekend by the way), and Angelo Capello in recent matches, but the change keeps on coming with Young’s departure. And Tuesday could see three more debuts in Yellow at York Road.

NEW SIGNINGS

There was clear frustration at the weekend from manager Jimmy Ball at the lack of speed in registering new addition Oludare Olufunwa from the league, but he is now ready to go. The former Liverpool & St Johnstone defender arrives at a vital time, with options at the centre of the defence limited. I expect to see him in the starting eleven, especially as he has been training with the group for several days. And Monday also saw the addition of two youngsters from Plymouth Argyle. Winger Tegan Finn is the first addition. The weekend saw the use of two wide players again, so having the highly rated Finn as an option is welcome to freshen the wide areas. He is with us for an initial 28 day load. Caleb Roberts will be with us until the end of January, and he adds depth to central areas of the midfield. The Plymouth fans that I know are really surprised that they have been loaned to us, so that must be a good sign. It will be interesting to see how they settle on Tuesday evening.

MOBILE DEON

The formation at the weekend really got the best out of central striker Deon Moore. Is mobility is one of the key aspects to his game, and he was able to come short or go long as needed to link play. The use of Beaumont-Clark and Capello as wingers enabled him to function in far more central areas, and also show his prowess in front of goal with a tidy finish for the second goal. Without trying to harp on about the end of last season, that position very much looks to get the best out of him. With Cody Cooke and Callum Morton as other central options, Jimmy can freshen up the team during games as we need too. But I expect to see Deon start again tomorrow.

THE OPPOSITION

United head to York Road with an identical record to our hosts, with just goal difference separating the two teams. Saturday’s impressive 3-0 win at 10 man Dover shows their ability in front of goal, and we’ll need to be alert to the threat of ex Gull Josh Umerah, as we found at Plainmoor last season. But getting on the front foot early will again be key to being able to get three more points. Back to back 2-0 away defeats in the league have dented is after the opening away fixture victory at Tonbridge. So it’s time for some fresh impetus and three points on the road.