1. The dichotomy facing The Imps is that whilst the league should and must remain the priority. the FA Cup – a competition we are patently not going to win – must be taken extremely seriously this season. It is one of the few potential significant revenue streams in the foreseeable future so a side that can realistically have a good chance of progressing must be picked.
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2. Therein lies a problem – fatigue and injuries to a number of key players are taking a toll so getting the selection balance right could range from a tricky balancing act, to a worst-case scenario of the side virtually picking itself. Michael Appleton and the sports science team will have the numbers on how in form the players are versus their fitness levels. For me, though I would say that fitness over form should prevail if that applies to only one or two positions and an otherwise balanced, competitive side can be formulated.
Johnson has to play surely. He is a potential match-winner and his selection for Wales means that he will shortly be getting a couple of weeks rest anyway. Sometimes having the decision made for you can actually help bring Michael’s new favourite word into focus – clarity.
Whoever is picked there are some likely new match day on-field relationships to build so it will be imperative for Michael Appleton to have made his selection decisions as early as possible so those link ups can be maximised in training in the period between the Portsmouth fixture and this Saturday.
3. Mentality is crucial. Confidence and belief should be extolled throughout the squad. A couple of defeats against two very good opponents are not epoch changing; better viewed as the normal bumps in the road in what is a very competitive league.
We know that L1 is a big step up from L2 as already evidenced by our games involving opponents from the latter in cup games. FGR should be the best L2 side we have faced this season but they should be respected not feared.
We know Michael Appleton plays to strongly enforced system so the players coming in should be able to contribute positively knowing exactly what is expected from them. FGR are a competitive opponent but they are no Liverpool or Portsmouth for that matter. The players coming into the side should recognise they need to be focussed, professional and trust in their ability to get the job done.
Writer: hulloutpost
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How Can The Injury Concerns Be Managed?
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— Vital Lincoln City (@VitalLincoln1) November 7, 2020
