Doncaster Team News

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 28/07/2009

MIKE Newell gets his last chance to see his Grimsby squad perform against football league opposition in tonight's final home friendly against Doncaster. Town then have one remaining friendly left at Winterton Rangers before the big curtain raiser at Cheltenham a week on Saturday.

Rob Atkinson, Ryan Bennett and Danny North all missed the defeat at Stockport at the weekend, but are available again for selection after overcoming injuries. Midfielder Danny Boshell, who limped off at Edgeley Park, is also expected to be fit in time for the visit of Rovers.

Likely to be missing though are wide man Adrian Forbes (knee), 'keeper Nick Colgan (groin) and centre back Matt Heywood (ribs).

With there likely to be a host of half time substitutions Grimsby fans will also get a chance to see new signing Chris Jones in action at some stage. The 19-year-old striker signed a three year deal at Blundell Park last weekend.

Although Mike Newell must be close to formulating his starting line-up for the match at Whaddon Road, the Town boss is quick to point out that it won't necessarily be his best team that he will put out against the Robins, just the fittest.

"I've said all along that come the first game I'll pick the players who are the fittest and who have played the best in pre-season," Newell told the Grimsby Telegraph.

"Different players get back into their rhythm at different times, so I'll pick those who have got up to speed quickest.

"That's just the way players are and it doesn't mean that if they're not in the team on the first day that they're no longer in contention.

"It's all about getting ready. If someone's not quite up to speed by the Cheltenham game then they won't start, but they may be ready by the next one."

Add To Facebook

This site is by the fans, for the fans, and we will consider articles on any subject relating to the Mariners whether it be related to current news, a nostalgic look back in the past, a story about a player, a game or games in the past, something about Blundell Park or football in general. Click here to submit your article!

Related Stories

• Town Lose to Stockport
• Chris Jones Signs Up
• If You're all going to Gainsborough..
• More Stories