E-mail Article Print this story

JIm Harvey lays down the new law

Related Links

• Teams
• Forest Green Rovers

Harvey won't shame six players

Forest Green Rovers manager Jim Harvey has refused to name and shame the six players he accused of not being good enough to play at the New Lawn.

Harvey last week lashed out after his side's embarrassing 3-1 home defeat to Altrincham and said that there were six players in his team that did not deserve their places and that he was looking to off-load them during the January transfer window.

Although, still livid with the players, Harvey has decided not to name the players involved and admits that they have shown great character after the manager's tirade.

"The players concerned have been left in no doubt that I'll be looking to move them on if it gives me scope to improve the squad," Harvey told this is Gloucestershire.

"I've been very pleased with their reaction, and the atmosphere in training and in the dressing room remains good.

"I can't afford to jeopardise that by making half a dozen of them outcasts, as I may well be relying on them for the next few weeks at least.

"Plenty of other clubs have found that it's not easy to get players off the books, even on loan, so I have to be sensible and make sure the boys we have are all pulling in the same direction.

"There is still more than a month to go until the (permanent) transfer window opens and there may be a chance for one or two people to change my mind."

After a superb start to their season, Rovers have seen themselves spiral down the table and now find themselves entrenched in the relegation battle.

They have not won a game since the end of August and will be looking to turn the tide when they host Mansfield Town this weekend.

Harvey might find a reprieve in the form of midfielders Alex Lawless and Lee Fowler, who both look set to make welcome returns from injury.

"Lee is warrior and someone I'd be prepared to throw back in if needs must," Harvey added.

"He is desperate to play, as is Alex, and those two can make a massive difference."

Defender Mark Preece is also expected to return to the fray but, Chris Thomas, Adriano Rigoglioso, Ryan Robinson, John Hardiker, Curtis McDonald and Ben Ashford are all still unavailable for selection.