Caldwell explained why he had to be subbed out when the Harambee Stars defender clutched his hamstring, despite enjoying his “best game” since signing for the club.
Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell has explained why he substituted Harambee Stars defender Vincent Harper in Saturday night’s 2-1 win over Barnsley.
Harper has put in a dominant performance since returning to the team after making few appearances since December, and was the undisputed man of the match in the win.
However, he was forced to leave in the 64th minute with a hamstring injury, but manager Caldwell said he was brought on as a precaution as he had not played much in the past month.
)
Harper made his debut for Harambee Stars in October last year and shined in Exeter’s 2-1 win over Barnsley, but was forced out with an injury.
“We knew we had to get him off at some point. He hasn’t played that much football physically, so we knew we had to get him off.” Caldwell said.
“We knew the changes we were going to make so we were ready for it and we just needed to see the game through at that point.
“We had some physical players on the last line and we were able to protect the crosses that Barnsley are good at. This is not an easy stadium to win at. I don’t think anyone has won here since September, so this It shows the magnitude of performance and victory.”
)
Harambee Stars prospect Bruce Kamau put in an outstanding performance in Perth Glory’s competitive league match against Macarthur FC.
Caldwell praised Harper, saying he played the best game of his Exeter career since joining League One in July 2023.
“Vinnie Harper played his best game for the club,
“Tom Carroll and Reece Cole dominated the middle of the pitch and all the defenders played with great composure.
)
The Harambee Stars defender created two big chances in Rakou’s debut match against Ludogorets, but they lost 3-1.
“It’s unfair to the team to take just anyone out because we’re all operating in a way we’ve never seen before and that has to be the standard we have to reproduce every week.”
Harper has currently made 18 league appearances for Exeter and will be hoping to get back on the pitch soon and continue to impress in preparation for Harambee Stars’ March assignment.
follow us Pulse Sports WhatsApp Channel For further updates.