Mark Robinson will have to shuffle his pack for the match at Bolton on Saturday due to injuries and suspensions.
Luke McCormick and Ayoub Assal are sidelined through suspension and Robbo reported from the training ground today that Jack Rudoni and Anthony Hartigan are likely to be ruled out.
“It’s been challenging, I can’t deny that,” said Robbo. “We knew that we wouldn’t have Macca or Ayoub because of suspension. Rudi is looking a huge doubt now – he’s picked up a knock in training - and we’ve also lost Anthony Hartigan. Ant has dislocated his shoulder, so we’re hoping it’ll only be two weeks. It could be up to four depending on how it reacts. So, it’s not ideal, but I trust all the lads here.”
Spirits were high at the training ground today, with both the staff and players looking to take advantage of having a welcome week-long break between games after what had been a hectic fixture schedule.
“Yeah, it’s been enjoyable. It’s always good to get on the grass and work on things,” added Robbo. “The momentum from Saturday has been really good.
“Everyone knows that we’re close. We now need to get the three points across the line. It’s key that we stay relaxed, but we need to keep that competitiveness high. We’ve lost 12 and in all bar four of those games we’ve always been competitive. We’ve got to change those small margins so that they go in our favour.”
We last faced Bolton back in August, playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw on our homecoming to Plough Lane as we fought back from two goals down. The Trotters have shown an upturn in form since the start of the year and are sure to prove to be a tough test for our young side. However, Robbo was quick to stress that our focus has to be on our performance, rather than the opposition.
“I did take a look back at the game in the summer. Obviously, things change but they were a very good side then and they’re a very good side now. They’re very dangerous on transition and we’re fully aware of the challenge ahead but we have to focus on what we do."
Click on the link below to listen to Robbo's full interview.