Express & Star

Jackett hails Henry as 'example' to fringe players

Kenny Jackett today declared James Henry has set the example to Wolves' fringe players by being ready to take their chance.

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Henry looked like he was aiming to prove a point as he gave a timely reminder of his capabilities in Saturday's 3-1 win against Blackburn.

The former Millwall man replaced Rajiv Van La Parra at half-time after Jackett thought the Dutchman may get sent off as he had been booked.

Jackett admits Henry's breathless display has given him food for thought.

"It's that type of performance that's going to get you into the team and if you do, then it's about holding onto that shirt," said the boss.

"With the way James has trained over the last week or two, I was confident of making the change.

"A slightly different type of player gave their left-back more problems than Rajiv did in the first half.

"If we can recreate that in all positions my job will be a lot easier."

Jackett added: "It just shows you must be ready because you never know when your chance will come.

"Rajiv hadn't done a lot wrong and can frighten people with his athleticism and sheer pace, but tactically we needed to change it to keep 11 on the pitch. It worked well because James is the exact opposite. He did very well and I was pleased with him. He's clever and tricky with a selection in his game in terms of running with the ball, going past people, passing and crossing at the right time, so it's a good complement between the two.

Sam Ricketts and Michael Jacobs – as well as Henry – are among those who Jackett admits can feel aggrieved at being among the substitutes to Jacketts' as-yet unchanged starting-XI.

"James had a good season last time and those guys on the fringes will feel unlucky to be out," said the boss. "They had a game against Northampton in which we performed pretty well but didn't do well in either box and it cost us.

"There have only been bits and pieces for them so they have to make sure they're ready."

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