While there has been an acceptance that Real Betis have been smart in their handling of Troy Parrott since joining the club, there was quite a bit of confusion over the decision to leave him out of the team for the game against Celta Vigo over the weekend.
With fellow forward Cucho injured, it was assumed that the Ireland striker would be given a sustained run in the starting XI over the next few weeks. However, Manuel Pellegrini would instead opt to start midfielder Nelson Deossa in the centre forward role.
Troy Parrott did come off the bench in the closing stages, missing a chance late on as the game finished 0-0.
Manuel Pellegrini Lays Down Troy Parrott Challenge
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Real Betis were set to return to action tonight, taking on fourth tier side Navalcarnero in the Copa del Rey. However, the fixture was postponed due to the rail crash on Wednesday morning.
Over 60 people died when two trains collided just south of Madrid. As a result, all Copa del Rey fixtures due to take place this evening have now been postponed.
When asked about the Irishman by a journalist, Manuel Pellegrini had previously laid down a challenge to Troy Parrott and his Real Betis teammates to use the game against the lower tier side to build both their stats and confidence:
Journalist: Antony and Troy Parrott—who, under normal circumstances (especially with Cucho injured), would likely be seeing more minutes in the league or the Champions League— but are are currently going through a rough patch. How do you utilise these types of matches when it comes to them?
Pellegrini: Specifically, it’s an opportunity to provide rest, or—when facing opponents that are, in theory, of a lower caliber or level—to allow players to register goals, assists, or strong performances, and to build their confidence.
Well, I believe the most important thing is for the team to put in a good performance; individual aspects can be looked at afterward.
I think we need to approach this with the mindset that we must qualify—and not just qualify, but also play a good match.
Within that match—much like in the League or the Champions League—there are typically 16 players who, during the time they are on the pitch, have the chance to demonstrate their current level of performance.
So, the goal is not just to win, but also to evaluate the team both individually and collectively.
Troy Parrott aiming to cement Real Betis place
Real Betis are now due to return to action this weekend when they travel to face Malaga. They will also take on Dortmund in the Champions League a few days later.
In any case, it would be encouraging to see the Irishman be given a sustained run in the team.