Conference North: Week off gives Harrogate Town chance to ‘build confidence’

Town have struggled for form and consistency in Vanarama North this season and need an upturn in form, starting at Worcester City on Saturday.

Without a game this week due to the FA Cup exit last month, Weaver spent his training sessions attempting to instil belief into a squad which has won just three of its 12 league matches.

Heading south, Town lie 18th in the table, ten points below the play-off zone and three above relegation.

Despite his side appearing to adopt a direct approach this season, the manager insisted he was coaching players to pass the ball around.

“When things aren’t going well a fear factor creeps in and people knock a couple of long balls,” Weaver said.

“It looks like we are sending people out to be direct. That’s not what we are trying to do and not what our training sessions have been about.

“The penny is dropping with some. They have freedom to express themselves and for some, that’s something they are not used to.”

Former Leeds United youngster Simon Lenighan will come straight back into the Town team after returning from suspension.

However, Lewis Coyle won’t play again in his month-long loan after suffering a fracture in his foot against Gainsborough Trinity last week. Matt Bloomer will replace Coyle at right-back, with Lewis Turner still ten days away from fitness.

Weaver said confidence was more important than three points at Worcestor.

“For me, it’s about building up confidence and building on the Gainsborough performance,” he added.

“If the result follows, fantastic but I am about trying to give the lads confidence.”