Sullay and Hiram get first taste of League action
Boss John Gregory is delighted with the progress of his two Crystal Palace loanees and says their experience of League One football will only help their development.
Sullay Kaikai made his debut against Peterborough in last Saturday’s 1-0 win while midfielder Hiram Boateng got 45 minutes on Tuesday in the 1-1 draw against Stevenage.
John knows only too well what it’s like to go from youth or Academy football into the first team, having taken that same step himself back in 1973.
JG said: “I can speak from experience. I made my debut for Northampton against Gillingham on January 6, 1973, and by half time I was ready to come off. I remember in the second half I was gone.
Both loanees came off after 45 minutes and both admitted to John it had been a tough experience.
“Both Hiram and Sullay both now appreciate what it’s all about. When they go back out next time they’ll have a totally different picture about what it’s all about,” added the boss.
“It’s not like Academy football, but when you’ve done something for two years in the same manner and suddenly you have to change it is a bit of a shock. But they will be fine and will be a little bit more prepared next time.”
Sullay and Hiram’s loans expire this weekend and the boss is talking to his Crystal Palace counterpart Tony Pullis about extending them. “Hopefully we will have some good news on that next week,” added John.
