Without a League One victory since the opening day of November, Coventry City make another attempt to kickstart their battle against relegation when Millwall come to the Ricoh Arena on Saturday afternoon.
With transfer window business having left Russell Slade’s squad looking, at best, only as strong as at the beginning of January, few supporters will hold out hopes of a miraculous escape.
And Millwall will provide just the kind of battle-hardened opposition that has proved too difficult for the Sky Blues on many occasions this season.
Vital Quotes:
Slade was only able to bring in Watford striker Michael Folivi on deadline day, telling the official club website that the youngster has ‘huge potential and is held in very high regard by Watford. He is pacey and direct with the ball, and will give us a different option going forward.’
Coventry City Team News:
The red card decision against captain Jordan Willis in last Saturday’s defeat at Northampton Town has been upheld and he begins the first game of a three-game ban.
Folivi comes into contention for his debut while there could also be a home bow for fellow loanee, Charles Vernam of Derby County.
Player to watch: Ryan Haynes
It was pleasing to see the academy product linked with Championship clubs this week and Haynes will hopefully continue to get a run in the City side over the next few months.
Millwall Team News:
Neil Harris has seen his side come through an FA Cup victory against Watford on Sunday before a goalless draw with Walsall in midweek so may make some changes to his starting line-up.
Player to watch: Ben Thompson
The 21-year-old midfielder recently signed a new contract having surpassed 50 appearances for the club he came through the ranks with.
Match Facts & Stats
Millwall have made five previous visits to the Ricoh Arena, their only win in April 2012 all but sealing the drop into League One for the Sky Blues.
Ref Watch:
Mark Heywood takes charge, assisted by David Plowright and Peter Gooch.
Next Fixtures:
Ahead of a relegation battle at Oldham Athletic next Saturday, City are 90 minutes away from Wembley when they take on Wycombe Wanderers in the Football League Trophy semi-final.
Millwall have home games against Southend (next Saturday) and Port Vale (a week on Tuesday) before their FA Cup 5th Round tie.
