Cambridge United players have ‘fierce’ competition for places within Mark Bonner’s starting line-up

Assistant head coach Gary Waddock has described the level of competition for places within the Cambridge United starting line-up as ‘fierce’.

Head coach Mark Bonner made a batch of additions during the summer but so far the majority of those new faces have had to settle for appearances off the bench or in Papa John’s Trophy fixtures.

Bonner has instead largely opted to stick with those that served the club so well last season in Sky Bet League One encounters – and Waddock believes that it perfectly highlights the strength in depth that now exists at the Abbey Stadium.

“They’ve (new players) got to get used to the style and how the team plays,” he said. “The players that were here last year have done so well, they deserve their opportunity again.

“You want competition and that’s hopefully what we’ve been able to do here. Those lads are good players so the competition is fierce.

“Everyone wants to play in every game, but Mark has been really good in the way he has rotated the group.

“If you come out of the team you’re not out of the team for very long, so you have to make sure you’re performing while you’re in it because you have to leave your mark.”

One of the summer signings that has endured a frustrating time in recent weeks is Brandon Haunstrup.

The left-back has been sidelined by a knee injury but Waddock is hopeful it will not be too long before the 25-year-old can be considered for selection again.

“It’s slowly but surely. He’s been out on the training ground on his own with the medical staff getting some work in,” he added.

“You have to be careful with players that have had injuries. Brandon will be fine, hopefully fingers crossed he won’t be out for too long.”

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