The tall Dutch custodian was injured just over three weeks ago in the 4-1 defeat of Rushden & Diamonds, but as yet Tilson has failed to bring in a loanee ‘keeper to provide cover for Darryl Flahavan, who has performed well and kept his first clean sheet of 2004/5 in the 1-0 triumph over Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday afternoon. Shrimpers chief Tilson slammed those that have criticised him for not yet securing the services of a second shotstopper.
Speaking to the club’s official website, www.southendunited.co.uk, the 38-year-old claimed, “We’ve been speaking to two or three goalkeepers”. However, as the United legend went on to point out, the situation was more than merely bringing someone else in, “It’s important for me that we don’t spend too much money on a number two that sits on the bench. The person needs to be adequate to come in and do a jump if needed”.
Another problem with bringing in a loan ‘keeper, especially from a Premiership club as the Wickford-born player-manager has been targeting, is that they are often reluctant to move if they know that they won’t necessarily be the number one choice. Wayne Henderson at Notts County has been given his opportunity, but as Tilson declared, “It’s hard getting someone in knowing that they are going to sit on the bench when the likeliness is that’s all they’re doing at their current club”.
Tilson is loathed to bring in youth-team goalie Nick Morgan in case he makes a mistake that will knock his confidence in the same way that Ryan Robinson was effectively ousted after harsh criticism of his displays against Hull City and Lincoln City in deputising for Carl Emberson last term. But the Southend gaffer fired a final shot at his detractors, pointing out, “It’s not a major issue for me; some clubs don’t have a sub keeper on the bench all season. If something comes off in the meantime then great but if not we will just carry on the way we are”.
Tilson’s words were expected to be aired on Blues TV last Saturday, but a technical fault meant that the coverage reverted to SKY Sports’ afternoon schedule. However, the Seasiders’ manager was also likely to claim that Mark Bentley, who has been partaking of extra goalkeeping practice during the week, remains the stopgap if Flahavan is injured.
Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com