TOWN boss Mark Cooper hinted Town’s contingent of trialists may have decisions made on their future in time for this weekend’s friendly clash with West Bromwich Albion.

Abdelaye Diakité, the imposing mystery centreback from last Saturday’s win at Petersfield, started in the 2-0 defeat to Villa and played an hour, as did Fabien Robert. Jack Jebb, Brad Barry, Jamie Stephens, James Brophy and Ellis Iandolo all came off the bench in the second half.

Robert was impressive in glimpses with his technique and passing. Diakite showed some of the defensive muscle that was absent at times last season.

Jebb, who only got 30 minutes, also looked very neat.

Cooper said it was probable decisions would be made on the non-contractees before the visit of Tony Pulis’ West Brom. The Town boss knows now is the time so he can either to bed them in to his squad or allow them ample time to try another club.

“We have to be making decisions on these trialists now,” he told the local media.

“They’ve been with us for three weeks and it’s only fair we give them a decision. If it’s a no then it gives them time to go find work elsewhere. If it’s a yes then we can get them sorted out and get them here permanently.

“(The trialists) have all done well. They’ve all shown glimpses of their ability. If we’re handing the contracts out then we’ve got to make sure they’re the right ones.

“(Robert) has got good feet, he’s an intelligent player who finds space and looks as though he can hurt teams with his ability.”

On the players he has got tied down, the County Ground chief is satisfied. Reflecting on what he’s seen from them so far he was encouraged but of the understanding they will take time to settle at Swindon.

“They’re all getting to grips with how we play. “They’re all shown bits and pieces of their ability,” he added.

“Brandon (Ormonde-Ottewill) did well at left-back. “(Drissa) Traore was very good, Jordan Williams looks like he will be an asset. Kevin Stewart is a real all-action all-rounder. I’m pleased with them.

“I think the acquisitions we’ve made –albeit they’re very young – have all got ability. “When you go to any (new) club there’s always an adjustment.

“These teams have different ways of playing, that doesn’t mean it is right or it’s wrong, but there’s a period of adjustment.”

The Swindon Advertiser was not permitted to attend manager Cooper’s post-match media duties.