Scunthorpe Utd: Knill wants more work in return from Garry Thompson
Garry Thompson has been told to step up his game, or be left on the sidelines.
Boss Alan Knill accepts the Scunthorpe United attacker is still easing his way back from a long-term groin problem.
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Alan Knill (right) is keen for Garry Thompson (left) to return to the Iron player of old as he slowly recovers from a long injury lay-off.
He is prepared to be patient when it comes to Thompson's rehabilitation – but only if he gets something in return.
"If you go on the pitch, you've got to have an impact," said Knill.
"It works both ways.
"We can all give Garry game time, but at the same time, we're all trying to win games.
"If you go on the pitch, you have to have an impact and you have to do things that we ask you to.
"It works both ways.
"We can be as patient as we want, and we are, but, at the same time, we have to have it back the other way.
"At times he gives it, and at other times, he just doesn't."
Thompson has started four games for Scunthorpe so far this season, though was used as a second half substitute in last Saturday's 1-1 draw with Colchester United.
With striker Bobby Grant suspended for Saturday's visit of Sheffield United, the 30-year-old remains an option for Knill up front.
However, the manager accepts Thompson, who was absent for the majority of last season, is not yet back to his best.
"He had a long lay-off and it takes people time to come back," said Knill.
"I think he's getting there.
"He's obviously not right up to speed yet so his reactions are still of someone who's not as sharp as he should be.
"But the good thing is he's aware of it.
"If he's aware of it then he can put it right, if he's not aware of it then you just carry on.
"Our expectation wasn't that he's going to be unbelievable.
"It's going to take time because he's had such a long time out.
"The hardest part was managing Thommo's expectations.
"We're just trying to tell him that these things take time and you have to be patient.
"But I think we all know that in there is a really good player. We all have to be patient to try to get it out.
"I'm hopeful he will come back to full strength and full power and be the Garry Thompson we know."
3 Comments
by Iron123
Friday, September 09 2011, 1:04PM
“A lot of truth in Knills comments but is there any need to air it in the media (even if no one reads it?).
The sad reality is that players dont like this type of 'motivation' and it just works against the team/player and club.
Poor Knill - lets hear a bit more positivity towards the players...Thompson has been played out of position up front in every game, whilst attempting to return from a long term injury, that cannot be easy.
ONE GARY THOMPSON.
Up the Iron!”
by ironedout
Friday, September 09 2011, 12:24PM
“A kick up the backside. Maybe its in the head & not all in the gut”
by PStoff
Friday, September 09 2011, 10:54AM
“He gives the impression all he is interested in is picking up a wage. Fans are on his back because of his football and effort now he has got back into the team. Nothing to do with his fitness he just seems to have a "don't care less attitude".
Could easily change that. Capable at NPC level so he should be mopping up at League One. Come on Thommo - get a grip.”