Crusaders have got into a rut and it's important that we start getting out of it, claims Crusaders boss Declan Caddell
Declan Caddell has revealed that he has laid down “a stark warning” to his players ahead of two big games coming up in the Sports Direct Premiership.
The Hatchetmen – who are currently one from bottom in the standings – face Carrick Rangers away from home on Saturday before welcoming basement club Glenavon to Seaview.
Caddell’s men have lost their last four games in all competitions but welcomed the return of Jacob Blaney and Ross Clarke into the matchday panel for Tuesday night’s defeat to Glentoran in the BetMcLean Cup.
When asked to summarise the task at hand ahead of the next two games, Caddell told Crusaders’ social media platforms: They are massive games. I gave a stark warning to the boys in the changing room.
"I knew what to expect vs Glentoran...but it’s going to be a different game going into Carrick on Saturday.
"For a lot of new boys who haven't been up there, so, levels need to be lifted massively.
"This game waits for nobody – that's the way it is. We've got to pick them up.
"It's a huge game against Carrick, we had a look at them earlier in the season. We need points and that's the bottom line.
"We've dug ourselves into a hole, we've got into a rut and we can't afford to be giving away goals as we're giving them away because it kills everything we're trying to do.
"We need to get that sorted as soon as possible and get their spirits lifted for a huge game against Carrick.”
Whilst being pleased to have the services of Blaney and Clarke to call upon – Caddell is still without experienced campaigners Stewart Nixon, Jordan Forsythe and Robbie Weir.
However, he is hopeful to have a couple of them back before Christmas as they aim to climb the table.
“The majority of them should all be back early December,” Caddell confirmed.
"We're talking about three weeks. It's OK getting them back but then you have to get them fit.
“A lot of them have missed a lot of game time, so, we'll be working hard behind the scenes to get them up to scratch.
"It might be a wee bit longer for Robbie Weir and Harry Jewitt-White.
"With competition increases intensity, hopefully increases results, so glad to get them boys back tonight.
"Stewart Nixon and Jordan Forysthe should be another week or two away.
"We're just going to have to navigate this next few weeks. The next two games are huge and we’re going to need to go with a lot more confidence than we showed on Tuesday night.”