Danny Webb maintains that there are still spots available in Chesterfield’s starting lineup for their season opener against Swindon Town.
The Spireites secured a 3-0 victory over Scunthorpe United in their final pre-season match on Friday night, leading many to believe that the starting XI from that game might be the same for their opener against the Robins.
However, Webb clarified, “People might assume that the team for the final friendly will be the starting lineup for the league opener, but that’s not necessarily the case with us. The players who were on the bench were eager to get involved and stayed professional. Don’t read too much into today’s lineup—those who played have made a case for starting next week.”
Webb praised the team’s performance, noting they were excellent in the first half, scored some impressive goals, and managed the game well in the second half. Importantly, they emerged from the match without any injuries. “We’ve come through it unscathed, so that’s a significant positive,” Webb added.
“We were outstanding in the first half. It did dip a bit in the second half, but that’s common in friendlies with all the substitutions,” Webb said.
“It was a solid finish to the pre-season. We had some good phases of play and defended well throughout.”
Trialist goalkeeper Jamal Blackman featured for the last 25 minutes, and the Blues will keep evaluating him.
Webb noted, “Earlier in his career, he was touted as the next big thing at Chelsea and had some impressive loan spells. He’s a great guy and has worked hard. However, Boot has been the number one during pre-season and was excellent again tonight. We’ll keep an eye on Jamal over the next few days.”
Regarding a potential return for Harry Tyrer, Webb commented, “It doesn’t guarantee a return or a non-return for any goalkeeper. We still have a week before the season starts, so there’s time to make moves, whether that’s for outfielders or goalkeepers. I’m not trying to be cryptic. Boot has performed very well, and Jamal has joined to provide some competition leading up to the first game. We’ll see what happens in the next week.”
Defender Xavier Benjamin, who was on trial recently, is no longer training with the team.
The focus now shifts to preparing for the match against Swindon Town next Friday. “They were here watching us tonight, and we’ll be out as staff tomorrow scouting League Two opposition,” Webb added.