Chapter 45: For Nate
Monday, February 1, 2010
The February morning was cold and grey at Broadfield Stadium. Frost covered the edges of the training pitch as Niels stood outside the changing rooms, watching his players arrive.
They had beaten Wycombe 2-1 the previous day, but the win had come at a cost. Nate Sutton had picked up a torn ligament and would be out for around three weeks.
Niels was still angry about it.
The players gathered inside, most of them sitting on the benches and taking their time getting ready. The mood was quieter than usual.
Max was the first to speak.
"Nate shouldn't be out because of a tackle like that."
Korey nodded. His ribs were still sore from the game.
"That Wycombe captain was doing my head in. They kept going in late all night."
Kieron, who had impressed after coming on, looked across at them.
"We'll manage without him."
Niels leaned against the wall and listened for a moment.
