I love Big George as much as the next man but, I would argue that Dan Happe deserves his chance to step-up for the following reasons:
Performances
I don’t think Happe has let us down whenever he has had to step-into the team. The final games of last season, the parts of games he has played this year – I can’t recall any mistakes by him. I therefore can’t see any reason why he should make way for Elokobi who – by his own admission – has, in my opinion, made mistakes in the past for us.
Mobility
When he has had the chance, Dan has shown just how quick he is over the ground and his ability to recover. Think of the saving tackle he made in the box versus Bromley, after Gorman’s mistake and only seconds after coming on. I just can’t see Elokobi getting back to make that tackle.
Height
We all know the National League can be ‘robust’ at the best of times and that our centre backs are going to have to do their fair share of headed clearances. I know that George can hold his own but Dan is several inches taller than him and so would, I’d fancy, have a chance of stepping into Coulson’s shoes and inspiring his own “He heads the ball away” chant!
Partnership
I would guess that Marv and Dan have actually played together more than Marv and George – given that Marvin has tended to play when George has been unavailable. The two were simply outstanding together against Gateshead in the last game of last season and have presumably also played together more in the reserves.
The Future
I firmly believe that we need to be looking to the future. Yes – we want to get out of this league but we also need to look to build a team for the future. Whilst a great pro with at least a season or two still in him I cannot see Big George being with us long-term.
Whereas Happe, at only 20, is by definition one for the future. If he is to develop into the defender we all hope he can be then he has to get first team experience. I think he has been extremely unlucky not to get more chances before now.
Arguably only Ekpiteta’s unexpectedly quick progression into the 1st team has prevented that. If (when!) we get back up into the football league we are going to need players like Happe to be able to step-up. In almost any other team in our league Happe would be a first choice – so give him some game time now!
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