Fogarty boosts squad ahead of hectic run-in

Initially, the reduction in the Premier Division to 17 teams meant that, as well as fewer matches over bank holidays, clubs were not facing the prospect of a daunting midweek programme.

But Saints still have 14 matches to play and, with not enough Saturdays left until the end of the season, will have to make up time with midweek fixtures.

“It looks like we will be playing twice a week from the beginning of March and will need every member of the squad fit and well,” said Fogarty.

The situation is not as bad as in the 2010/11 season when, after beating Pilkington XXX 3-0 on November 20, Saints did not play again until the beginning of January and ended the season with nine matches in April.

The Saints boss has been keeping things ticking over with training sessions on the all-weather pitch at Southam Community College and is looking to strengthen his squad for the season’s run-in.

With central defender Aaron Addison having left for Leamington Hibs and both Jamie Coleman and Jon Grandfield out for the season through injury, Fogarty has re-signed the experienced Glenn Webb to provide cover.

Luke Swinnerton, who has been getting match practice at Stoneleigh, will be in contention and Fogarty has not given up hope of another loan deal with Daventry Town for striker Howard Forinton, who scored in the 3-2 win at Earlswood Town in one of his two earlier appearances for the club.

One player who will be keen to get back into action is James Hardie, who has been nominated as player-of-the match seven times.

His nearest challengers are defender Charlie Neale and midfielder Brad Rees with three apiece and Fogarty has been delighted with the way that Hardie and Rees have combined this season.

“Neither Brad nor I knew what his best position was when he joined us,” said Fogarty. “But he has slotted in well with James and helped us overcome the loss of Josh Cole to Banbury United.”

When taking on the job at the start of last season, Fogarty was set a target of promotion within four seasons and, with Saints just a point off leaders Bolehall Swifts, they have a real chance of pulling it off earlier than hoped for.

However, Fogarty feels the team still needs to improve to take the title.

“Some of our younger players need to find more consistency and learn from the experienced hands in the team.

“Defenders Charlie Neale, Marc Passey and Jack Taylor have certainly benefited from playing alongside Quentin Townsend, who started his career in the professional game, and Howard Forinton added this dimension in attack when he was with us on his loan spell.”

Tomorrow, Saints visit Bloxwich United.