Hughton Says The Calls For Routledge Were Premature

Last updated : 16 March 2010 By Footy Mad - Editor

Which poses the questions ... why was he on the bench in the first place, and why was he warming up when he was not going to be called upon?

However, Hughton says both Jose Enrique and Wayne Routledge could start against Scunthorpe after opting not to risk them at the Riverside on Saturday.

Chris Hughton: “Jose and Wayne will both be ready.

“In normal circumstances, Jose would have come on. But it would have been a big risk, particularly after his last game. Because of the fact we got the draw, I’m delighted I didn’t put him on.

“We’re at home against Scunny, which is the most important thing, but we’ve got a few knocks and bruises, and a few decisions to make.

“The supporters wanted to see Wayne, who has made a big impact since his signing, but I didn't want to risk him.

“Colo had to go off early in the second half with a dead leg.

“The thing with dead legs is that they get sorer and sorer the more you play on them.

“He’s a tough lad, but he had to come off.

“We had to reshuffle.

"Danny Simpson also picked up a knock. He did really well to play 90 minutes, and probably should have come off.

“When you take all of that into consideration it’s a good point.

“We showed great character.”