Chapter 238: FA Cup Rotation
December 19, 2010
The training ground was quieter than the day before.
With the FA Cup tie against Mansfield only a day away, the intensity had shifted. Yesterday had been about recovery. Today was about precision.
Ellis adjusted his footing as he received a short pass, cushioning the ball and playing it back in one touch. His legs felt lighter now, the soreness from Bournemouth fading, replaced by a sharper edge.
Around him, the rhythm stayed consistent with short passes, quick adjustments, and no unnecessary movement.
"Keep it clean," Thomas called out. "We don't want any risks."
The message didn't need repeating.
A few yards away, Kieron moved into space, calling for the ball with a quick gesture. When it came, he turned smoothly but before he could release it, a second figure closed him down.
Jamal.
The challenge wasn't reckless.
"Too slow," Jamal said quietly, already turning away.
Kieron's jaw tightened, but he didn't respond.
