AFC Telford United boss explains defensive decision

AFC Telford United boss Kevin Wilkin has explained his decision to pick Jordan Cranston over Orrin Pendley at centre-back on Saturday.

With Zak Lilly absent with a shoulder injury, Cranston - naturally a left-back - got the nod to play as the left-sided centre-half alongside Oliver Cawthorne.

The Bucks went on to win 2-1 at Southport, with Cranston justifying his selection in the north west.

“We were looking at a little bit of balance,” said Wilkin. “We have to explore and see exactly where players are at.

“Jordan's been out and injured for a little while. He's been a little bit frustrated that he hasn't been in there, but we know from last season that he can do a more than good job as a centre-back.

“I think he's a little bit rusty at times, but overall, I'm pleased with what he's done.”

Cranston’s greater ability in possession also appeared to be behind the manager’s decision.

“He's technically a good footballer,” added Wilkin. “He has a fantastic delivery off his left foot and, you know, put some quality balls in there.

“You're right, we could have played Orrin. It's nice to have a bit of depth about what we are and to maybe look at something a little bit different and see how that unfolds, and certainly the combination between Jordan and Oliver I thought was, by and large, pretty strong.”

Wilkin also confirmed that Birmingham City loanee Billy Burrell’s loan had expired and, with Taylor Anderson coming into the group, Burrell had returned to St Andrew’s. He also confirmed that seeking further additions to his squad remains work in progress.

The Bucks boss was pleased to see summer signing Louis Moult bag the winner with a superbly-taken effort, feeling the 34-year-old’s pedigree in such moments showed why he’d enjoyed a 10-plus year career in the EFL and Scottish Premier League.

Wilkin said: “If we give him those chances and opportunities, then I'm pretty confident that he'll go and finish.

“He's scored goals throughout his career, and he perhaps doesn't get around the pitch at the pace that he used to, but he still works incredibly hard for the cause.

“You see that, in the closing 10 minutes or so, how hard he's worked; he's run his socks off for us. He looks after himself and can have a major impact on other players about how you conduct yourself and what you do.”