Carl Forshaw

Carl Forshaw made his Hesketh Casuals B debut when called upon last minute after a typical influx of cry-offs after being introduced to the apprentice chief scout Barry Fellowes. The toughest match of the season, Rossendale away, was always going to test Forshaw but he performed admirably up front. Within 20 minutes of the full time whistle, the Lancastrian could obviously see the B team potential and requested a signing on form.

It was clear that Forshaw had the talent, but the lack of fitness was even clearer, which was probably exacerbated by the fact that he sparked up at 5 minutes before kick off, at half time and full time. Carl made a handful of appearances in his first year with Casuals in the 2005-06 season, playing mainly midfield and up front, scoring one goal in the process.

The following season proved to be disastrous for Carl after hobbling off in the opening game after an hour. This was to be the last Casuals B saw of Forshaw that season and, it was feared, all seasons.

Forshaw bounced back, however, after a gruelling fitness regime in the Summer of 2007 which saw him reduce his fag (ciggarette) intake to 40 a day from 185. This season has seen Forshaw blossom in a somewhat unaccustomed position. A decimation in available players for the seasons opener at Radcliffe meant stand in manager Chris Hames was forced to reshuffle the pack and play Carl at right back. It seems, halfway through the season, as though the captain had unearthed a gem, as Forshaw has consistently performed to a high standard this season. Basing his game on his hero Gary Neville, Forshaw is now regarded as the finest right back in the league and is certainly vying for honours come the end of the season.

Carl's attributes are endless with his tackling, passing, shooting (in the warm ups), heading and calmness all bearing fruit this season. He has also managed to score from right back, in an attempt to emulate his hero Gary Neville, who also breaks quickly from the back to assist the strikers.

Forshaw's presence in the side is essential and if he can continue to stick to his healthy lifestyle he can only improve.

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