Imps News

Michael Appleton: “If I can help it, I don’t want to let it get away.”

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Ahead of the clash with Charlton Athletic, Michael Appleton took a sanguine approach to the abject refereeing decision that had impacted so significantly on the previous game.

You can discuss what Michael Appleton said earlier today HERE, as well as many other topics on our 100% Imps forum! We have also published a Lincoln City v Charlton Athletic Quiz, which can be found just below the summary. Every page view helps raise money for Lincoln City Football Club!

Peterborough Match: MA confirmed that the head of refereeing had apologised for the penalty decision. “I’m not surprised. It was that horrific that they couldn’t do anything other than apologise”.

It wasn’t a good day for the referee nor the club but it is time to move on. There is another opportunity coming up for The Imps and having the right frame of mind and focus has to be ensured.

Play-Offs: “The play-offs are going to be massive, massive games for the football club”.

MA extolled how far ahead of schedule the club is currently. “We’re excited about it….when the dust settles and you think about the achievements so far this season of reaching the playoffs…..everyone’s played their part, should be proud; but ultimately for me, there’s still a job to be done and an opportunity, if I can help it, I don’t want to let it get away”.

Approach to the Remaining Regular Season Games: MA appeared to be leaning towards managing team selection conservatively for the next two games. He did acknowledge that by selecting his strongest team that would carry momentum into the post-season phase but tempered that with the recognition that the players are in such a good place in terms of form. Having just played the two promoted sides, The Imps were the better team in both games.

“If I do make sufficient changes and players come in, it’s going to give them a great opportunity to showcase their abilities and show to me that if they are required as and when, they are more than ready”.

Charlton Athletic: Joe Walsh, Adam Jackson, Brennan Johnson could play but there is a slim chance of that. MA will base his selection for those players on whether minutes on the pitch or a ten days training schedule is in the best interests for them. He will get the balance right.

MA recognised the impact of Nigel Adkins who had inherited a very good squad for the level. Adkins is very experienced, a great motivator, always upbeat, confident and doesn’t seem to have many bad days. Under NA Charlton will never give in as evidenced by their late equaliser during the weekend game.

“They’ll be coming all-out attack to beat us. We’re aware of that; we get that. Again our away record remains outstanding and hopefully it will continue to be that case tomorrow”.

Have a go at our Lincoln City v Charlton Athletic Quiz below:

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City's 2-0 win over Charlton on 27 September 2020 was the first league meeting between the clubs since which season?

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