David Flitcroft says he always explains to his Bury players why they have been left out after substitute Daniel Nardiello forced an FA Cup replay.
The former Manchester United forward fired in a scrappy stoppage-time equaliser against Luton Town at the JD Stadium, to cancel out Mark Cullen’s opener.
Flitcroft introduced Nardiello in the 83rd minute and after the match the Shakers manager said he justifies his team selections to those placed on the bench.
“It’s always professional and never personal – I always talk to players about why they’re in the team or left out,” he said.
“We’re in the hat [for the third round draw] and we’re looking forward to seeing who we might get if we can get past Luton.
“You just have to look at the reaction of the players after that goal – these lads want to win football matches.”
Here’s the moment #buryfc forced #ltfc into a #FACup second round replay… #GetCarriedAway pic.twitter.com/r3s99s5IPh
— Bury Football Club (@buryfcofficial) December 6, 2014
Bury ended their run of four consecutive defeats in all competitions and are still in with the chance of heading into the potentially lucrative third round.
The replay will be played at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday December 16, adding another fixture into what Flitcroft has described as an already ‘busy period’.
As well as the two FA Cup clashes, the Shakers have four League Two fixtures as they look to get their promotion bid back on track.
With so many games coming up striker Ryan Lowe, who also came off the bench against the Hatters, has said that the players must deal with the manager’s selection policy.
“We have to live with the decisions the gaffer makes but fair play to Nardiello for coming on and scoring,” said the former Tranmere Rovers front man.
“I’ve been in teams when fellow strikers are waiting for you to mess up – there’s none of that here.
“As far as I’m concerned, this is one of the best competitions in the world and I’ve always wanted to be part of it.”
Main image courtesy of Bury FC via YouTube, with thanks.
