Hasselbaink credits Edinburgh after Northampton’s first win of the season

(Photo: Action Images via Reuters)

By Alex Beard

New Northampton manager Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink payed tribute to his predecessor Justin Edinburgh after the Cobblers got their first win of the season against Doncaster on Saturday.

The Dutchman arrived at Sixfields just last Monday having been drafted in to replace the struggling Edinburgh, under whose stewardship Northampton had failed to win in any competition since March.

And it was an instant impact felt by the former Burton Albion and QPR boss, as the hosts secured a 1-0 victory over their high-flying opponents.

Hasselbaink shared the glory after the win: “I must say this three points is part of Justin as well, who has just left,” he said.

“I definitely believe that at a certain time he could have got the three points, and it is just unfortunate how it works in football. But we mustn’t forget the good work that Justin has done here.”

It took just 21 seconds for the Cobblers to grab what turned out to be the game’s winning goal, defender Matt Crooks steering in to seal the three points.

Hasselbaink was particularly impressed with QPR loanee Matt Ingram, with the goalkeeper making a series of important saves at Sixfields: “He did well, and there will be more matches when we need him,” said the Northampton chief.

“He is a good ‘keeper. I bought him from Wycombe when I was at QPR, so I know him really well. He was there at times when we needed him on Saturday.”

The action continues at Sixfields tomorrow night when the Cobblers play host to newly-promoted Portsmouth.