Northampton Town manager Kevin Nolan has lavished praise on Elliot Moore, waxing lyrical over the defender’s influence on his team’s recent League One performances.
The Cobblers have eased their relegation fears since the 28-year-old’s arrival from Oxford United, playing a starring role in their 3-1 victory over Stevenage, and Saturday’s disciplined goalless draw at Exeter City.
Moore, who brings a wealth of experience from over 200 appearances with the U’s, has been signed to bolster the Northampton Town squad as they fight to maintain their League One status.
He has undoubtedly hit the ground running, with his new boss expressing his delight at having secured Moore’s services.
Positive Impact On His Northampton Town Teammates
A theme in his first two performances for the Sixfields outfit has been his excellent leadership qualities operating in the centre of a back three. He guided both of his less experienced comrades, Max Dyche and Michael Forbes, expertly through a difficult afternoon at St James Park, an organisation that ultimately earned the Cobblers a vital point.
In comments published in the Northampton Chronicle and Echo, the Liverpudlian manager explained how he has already witnessed the benefit that Moore is having on those around him.
“I feel so lucky to be able to have Elliot with us. We’re still getting him up to speed, but he looks great, and he’s also helping the two young boys next to him.”
“It must feel amazing for them to have someone like Elliot because he’s so experienced and he brings an all-round calmness to the team.”
His arrival in Northamptonshire has sparked some much-needed momentum into the side, an impetus that couldn’t have been better timed as they also look forward to an EFL Trophy semi-final.
Northampton Town’s Ailing Season Gets Significant Boost
Prior to Moore’s first start for the club in the victory over Stevenage, Kevin Nolan had seen his side go winless in nine League One matches either side of the new year.
The four points picked up from the last two matches have helped establish a two-point buffer between themselves and the relegation places. But with the competition so fierce between a cluster of clubs, the 43-year-old knows that the battle for survival is only just beginning.
In January, a conscious effort was made to solidify their defensive structure by acquiring a blend of both youth and experience. It’s a method that is already yielding results, with the Leicester City youth product playing a key role in the turnaround.
While improved performances are encouraging, it’s as much about maintaining focus and composure amidst a relegation battle. That shouldn’t be a problem for the Shoe Army, based on recent evidence.
While speaking to BBC Northampton, full-back Kyle McAdam discussed the excitement around the upcoming EFL Trophy semi-final, but insisted it wouldn’t distract from the immediate priority of League One survival. This suggests there are no illusions about the importance of every single game, with the Nottingham Forest loanee quickly being brought up to speed.
