Gary Caldwell sidesteps questions over Exeter future amid Wigan links

Exeter manager Gary Caldwell refused to speak about his future and praised his players for an outstanding performance in a goalless draw against resilient Northampton.

Billed as Caldwell’s farewell, with the Scot set to leave and take over from Ryan Lowe at fellow League One side Wigan next week, his side dominated the Cobblers but lacked the final touch to turn a draw into victory.

“The performance from back to middle was incredible, some of our football was so good and we took their game away from them – they like to make it physical and make it difficult and we stood up to that,” Caldwell said.

“It was just that final action, how we attack the box, sustaining attacks a bit more and our five-second fury, so it was frustrating from that point of view.

“The players were outstanding and gave everything with how they performed. It was a brilliant performance without that final action again but I cannot fault the players, they were excellent today.

“We probably didn’t create big enough chances but credit to them, they defended the box really, really well. To win games of football, you have to score goals, but some of our play – it’s brilliant to watch.”

The Exeter fans chanted for Caldwell to stay in Devon, but when asked about that – and his future – Caldwell said: “It was amazing and I think the supporters are amazing at this football club with what they give in terms of backing. What they have done over the supporter ownership is fantastic.”

Northampton manager Kevin Nolan was delighted with a point and the resilience his side showed.

“I am absolutely delighted because this is a tough place to come,” he said.

“They have lost only once here since September and with all the speculation going on, we knew they were going to come out fighting and come flying at us for the manager because he is very well liked and has done a great job down here – that’s why he’s getting linked with other ones.

“We ground it out and worked hard, it was a really good out-of-possession performance and we limited them to very few chances.

“Our goalkeeper (Ross Fitzsimons) made saves, but not incredible saves like he did last week (against Stevenage), to keep us in the game and keep the clean sheet. Who knows, on another day we sneak out of here with a 1-0 but (when Cameron McGeehan scored) the lino had his flag up and it would have been an even better day – but I am absolutely delighted.

“Getting a clean sheet is really, really important, we have momentum and we can build momentum with wins and draws against tough sides that are doing well in the league this year.”