Paul Tisdale says handing David Kasumu and Sam Nombe their first league starts against AFC Wimbledon wasn’t a bold call as both players fully deserved their call-ups.
Kasumu and Nombe came into Tisdale’s XI for Saturday’s clash with AFC Wimbledon and played their part as the Dons secured a 2-1 victory in front of the Sky Sports cameras, with the latter scoring the opening goal.
“It was not a brave move to select them because they earned their places,” manager Tisdale said in his post-match press conference.
“Young players don't just get a game because I want to play them, they have to earn it. If they're doing well enough then they'll get a go - they did today and they were both fantastic.”
Nombe’s opener was his fourth goal in as many games, following his strike in the Carabao Cup victory over Southend United and the brace in the 3-0 win at Stevenage last week. Tisdale was keen to praise the 20-year-old striker for his maturation in recent weeks.
“He's a terrific young chap, who wants to do well so desperately. Everyone thinks highly of him.
“There are two or three things he does really well. You cannot be good at everything so choose one or two things which you are very good at and perform those. If maturity means that he's understanding that, and playing to those strengths, then he's maturing.
“He has had a really good week and it’s our job now to navigate what happens next, but what a start.”
