The key selection issues facing new Huddersfield Town boss Michael Duff
A position-by-position analysis of the Terriers’ existing squad and summer recruitment priorities
Here’s the situation as we see it.
Huddersfield Town need to change their squad and first team wholesale this summer. They also need to reset the club’s culture, be competitive on the pitch, get over a couple of seasons of misery and forget everything the last six managers have told them in the process.
A lot to do then. We know the players will be back soon and work will begin. With that in mind we thought we’d look at the key selection questions facing Duff from the off, the ones he needs to start thinking about now before they become even bigger problems. We’ll break them down into separate parts as it’s easier on the eye, but fair warning, there is a lot to discuss.
Let’s begin at the back.
Who’s in goal then?
Lee Nicholls is Huddersfield Town’s number one — until he isn’t. This summer feels like the moment to sell him after his least convincing campaign. And let’s be honest, he’s a better goalkeeper than League One level. If he stays he plays and that might happen, but what if he goes?
Chris Maxwell was an able deputy when required and would be fine, but Duff may need to be convinced a number two is going to do the job as his main man. It also leaves his squad looking inexperienced in terms of cover. Town have some promising keepers coming through including Jacob Chapman, but we all saw what happens when a young player suddenly has to step in before they’re ready. Go well, Ryan Schofield.
So it comes down to this: if Nicholls leaves are you happy with what you’ve got? If not are you recruiting a new number one or a solid and able back up?
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