Lee Johnson spoke to the press ahead of this weekend’s trip to face Southend United.
Conor Wilkinson, Dan Crowley and Simeon Jackson have all returned from international duty uninjured and fit for the trip to Roots Hall.
Head Coach Lee Johnson confirmed that his only guaranteed absentee would be Ryan Williams who has been out with a long-term injury, but there was also a slight concern over Conor Hourihane.
“Conor’s going for a scan this morning,” Johnson said. “He had an awkward fall and at the time I winced a bit thinking it was a bad one, but then he continued in the game. He felt it again later on so we took him off as a precaution.
“I’m optimistic he’ll play, he’s a robust character and he’ll certainly want to be out there.”
When asked about team selection due to the Reds having four games in ten days, Johnson gave his thoughts.
“It’s a fine line on rotation,” explained Johnson. “We’ve fared better when we have had games coming consistently. Certain players can do it and certain one’s can’t but winning gives you energy, and if you get those wins you feel strong and confident.
“We might have to grind out a win on Saturday and if we have to do that then so be it.”
Ahead of the trip to Southend, the Reds Head Coach gave his thoughts on The Shrimpers.
“They have turned it around!” said Johnson. “They didn’t start great and didn’t win for a few games, but since then they have won quite a few and only lost two.
“We feel we are a team in form although our league form wouldn’t suggest that, so we go there with every chance. It’s a long journey for us, it maybe gives us a chance to mix up the squad a bit as well.”
