Coventry City play their first home game on a Saturday since late November when high-flying Fleetwood are the visitors to the Ricoh Arena this weekend.
The cautious optimism generated by Russell Slade’s early matches in charge has been tempered by the timid 1-0 defeat at Chesterfield last Saturday but with another new signing made since then, the manager continues his rebuilding job.
Vital Quotes:
Fleetwood are unbeaten in the league since mid-November and goalkeeper Alex Cairns told his club’s official website: “We’ve got a good group of players and it’s showing on the pitch that the team spirit’s really high at the minute.
‘As a team we’re defending really well, and attacking really well too – we’ve got great chemistry in the team.’
Coventry City Team News:
Farrend Rawson looks likely to make an immediate debut after his loan move from Derby County at the beginning of the week.
With a deal to sign a new striker delayed until next week, Slade looks set to continue with Marcus Tudgay, Stuart Beavon and George Thomas in attacking areas while injuries mean Jodi Jones, Gael Bigirimana and Kevin Foley are all likely absentees.
Player to watch: Farrend Rawson
City’s search for a commanding central defender has gone on for some time, the Derby loanee seems to tick all the boxes but can he hit the ground running?
Fleetwood Town Team News:
Striker Wes Burns, on loan at Fleetwood last season, signed permanently for the Cod Army from Bristol City this week and comes into contention for an immediate debut. Another new arrival, German midfielder Markus Schwabl may have to wait for international clearance.
Player to watch: David Ball
Netted his 10th goal of the season in last Saturday’s 3-1 win over Bristol Rovers.
Match Facts & Stats
Fleetwood’s fine season has been built on solid home form although they have picked up points on the road, winning three and drawing three of their twelve matches away from Highbury.
Ref Watch:
Darren Deadman takes charge, assisted by Steven Copeland and Danny Gratton. Mr Deadman took charge of City’s 3-0 defeat at the hands of Russell Slade’s Charlton Athletic earlier this season, having to delay the game after an innovative protest by the supporters of both clubs.
Next Fixtures:
Fleetwood have a midweek date at league leaders Sheffield United while the Sky Blues next game is their first return to Sixfields since playing ‘home’ matches there when they meet Northampton Town next Saturday afternoon.
