Doncaster Rovers have been hit by late injury concerns ahead of Tuesday night’s huge League Two clash at Salford City, with manager Grant McCann confirming that three players are facing a race against time to be fit.
The club’s game in hand offers a massive opportunity in the promotion race. Victory at the Peninsula Stadium would see Rovers leapfrog into second place, placing them firmly in control of their own destiny with just four matches remaining.
However, the build-up has been clouded by uncertainty as McCann revealed that three unnamed players are now “very doubtful” to feature, leaving his matchday squad potentially stretched at a critical time.
Fitness Fears As Pressure Builds
Already without key figures Joseph Olowu (thigh injury) and Billy Sharp (suspension), Doncaster could be forced into significant reshuffling. McCann admitted the decision on the fitness of the trio would be made late in the day, depending on updates from head of medical Dave Rennie.
“We’ve got a few issues unfortunately. There’s three players doubtful, very doubtful I would say… Dave will message me later on to see how they’re feeling.”
Rovers travel to a Salford side managed by Karl Robinson, who are still mathematically in the hunt for the play-offs. Despite sitting outside the top seven, the Ammies remain dangerous opponents – something McCann was quick to stress in the build-up.
“As I mentioned about the Cheltenham game, if you say ‘oh well they’ve nothing to play for’ it’s almost a bit of an insult to them… Salford, I’ve no doubt, still have an eye on that top seven.”
McCann’s comments suggest he is wary of complacency creeping in, especially with so much at stake. The fixture is one of the most important remaining on Doncaster’s calendar, and the club’s strong away form – the best in the division – could once again prove decisive.
The manager is expected to lean on players like Owen Bailey and Tom Nixon should further reinforcements be required. He’s also hinted that young talent such as Will Flint, fresh off a promising loan at Darlington, may be asked to step up if needed.
The spotlight now turns to how McCann adapts under pressure and manages a potentially depleted squad for one of the most vital games of the season.
Site Opinion
McCann’s guarded approach regarding the identity of the doubtful trio is likely as much about gamesmanship as it is caution. With Salford still clinging to hope of a play-off surge, this won’t be a walkover. Rovers’ promotion hopes may hinge on how well their squad handles this bump in the road — both physically and mentally. Expect a tight, high-stakes battle with far-reaching consequences for both clubs.
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