Stand-in Captain in positive mood ahead of Charlton match
Huddersfield Town’s stand-in captain Joel Lynch was in a positive mood when he spoke to the media ahead of the Charlton match, explaining that the morale within the Terriers’ camp is better than ever.
Lynch has captained the Terriers in their last two league matches after Lee Peltier suffered a groin injury against Chesterfield.
The Welsh international has played every minute of Town’s Sky Championship campaign to date and was integral as Town produced a fantastic defensive display to beat Reading on Tuesday night.
“It has been a difficult few weeks, but I think we are making progress,” explained the 26 year-old. “We didn’t make a good start and the opening day was a very bad experience for everyone associated with the Club. Since then though, things have started to come together and the morale amongst the squad is much better.
“I think Tuesday night highlighted the belief within the squad and hopefully the win will kick start our season.”
Lynch was made Town’s stand-in Captain by Caretaker Manager Mark Lillis who, according to the defender, has helped change the atmosphere within the squad.
“Lills (Mark Lillis) has been brilliant since he took on the role; he is a fantastic motivator. The two Steves (Thompson and Eyre) have done a good job on the coaching front and getting us prepared for matches. Everyone seems to be getting on better, which I think has been reflected in our recent performances.
“The three coaches are working individually with each player and discussing their role within the team and what they should be doing on a match day. Lills has made the whole experience on and off the field enjoyable; he puts a smile on the lads’ faces. He is fantastic to have around the group.”
Following the failings of the opening day, Town has reverted to a flat back four with Lynch at the heart of it, a position he favours.
“When we got the formation (3-5-2) working last season we played really well and built up a reputation as a good passing team. It is a tough formation to play and get right; teams in the Premier League have tried and failed. I prefer playing as part of a back four as I believe it makes the team more solid. We were fantastic against Reading defensively and I think playing four in defence is more suited to the type of players that we have.”
Joel has also been impressed with Town’s summer recruits, especially midfielder Jacob Butterfield: “I had played against Jacob and knew how good he was, but I have been surprised at how much he influences games; he is a real asset to the Club. He is the type of player that we needed. He likes to get on the ball and moves the team forward, which is what we were missing.”
And on Town’s manager search, Joel said: “As players we don’t let it affect us, the Chairman and the Board are moving forward with that process. We are just getting on with our jobs and focusing on each game. The lads are very positive and hopefully the good results can keep coming.”
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