Ahead of the Milton Keynes Dons game Michael Appleton remained focussed on what he wants from his players for the remainder of the season with a view to setting in place the foundations for next year.
Rotherham: MA felt Imps should have beaten Rotherham never mind getting a point. Having reviewed/debriefed the game his view on that had not changed. He was particularly pleased with the work from the players out of possession and the number of chances created when in possession. Imps responded well to conceding the first goal against a side that has been steamrollering opposition with City still going onto create good chances of their own. If that is an indicator of confidence remaining high in the camp on the back of several defeats then it bodes well.
Milton Keynes: MA watched the MK Dons Saturday game at Shrewsbury. It allowed him to see them up close and observe factors such as what ‘they’ do out of possession thereby identifying areas that Imps may be able to exploit. MK are in decent form and look to play out from the back having a GK who is very comfortable using his feet. He is expecting an entertaining game of football which should be a good watch. MA joked that if a few of our fans get nervous about playing out from the back wait until ‘you’ see the way MK do it. He is open-minded about whether the MK style will play into Imps hands – it will depend on how both teams press each other. Sometimes it suits City to play sides that get the ball forward more directly as their press also presents opportunities for Imps to exploit themselves. it remains to be seen whether there is as high a tempo as seen in the game versus Rotherham.
Will The Imps Win, Lose Or Draw Against Milton Keynes Dons?
Win
Lose
Draw
Injuries: Lee Frecklington has been doing ‘bits and pieces’. That said whilst MA would never say never, having brought Liam Bridcutt into the club plus there being another 4 CM’s already in situ. it is unlikely LF will be playing soon.
Michael Bostwick has only had 1 training session so whilst MA knows Bossie is a warrior even he would be surprised if MB was able to start a match just yet.
The remainder of the Season and Beyond: MA acknowledged the need for a win and the sooner the better. However, the bigger picture is regarding performances for the remainder of the season and if the display against Rotherham is anything to go by then MA is confident that Imps will start to pick up some wins. The aim is to finish as high as possible to feel good about ‘ourselves’ and set a platform for next season. MA was not and is not under any illusion about how much work was needed when he came in and the amount that needs doing over the Summer. This year is about establishing in L1, knowing the competition and levels that will be required for success next year. MA is personally very excited about the prospects, he hopes everyone is and knows for certain that the board are.
Writer: hulloutpost
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MA: "Being in this division next year is the most important thing.":https://t.co/5ze1jQRT5c#ImpsAsOne #ProudToBeImps
— Vital Lincoln City (@VitalLincoln) February 11, 2020
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