After the disappointment of the Swindon performance, Michael Appleton was his usual grounded self when looking ahead to the long journey down to Plymouth for this Saturday's League 1 fixture:
Swindon - MA certainly expects a reaction from the players following the midweek game. Emotions aside, he still retained the same thoughts about the performance.
"It's a point all things considered we probably didn't deserve......just some of the outrageous errors and mistakes we sort of made on the evening".
Positive Injury Update - Callum Morton may be back in time for the Crewe game and failing that, worse case the Ipswich game. He is a naturally very fit player so the issue with the type of injury he has had is more about ensuring that he has the blessing of the surgeon and medical staff regarding his arm holding up to the game demands placed on it.
On Tom Hopper: "He's been magnificent for us....He's had to put the yardage in probably more than we would want or expect from him".
Tom's unselfish work is recognised by players and staff alike but ultimately he needs the help that Callum can bring.
Fatigue versus Form Selection Decisions - Team selection is a mixture of both considerations.
"Its a difficult scenario to balance and get right but ultimately that's what we're paid for....We might have to find a balance between making sure the players get enough rest but at the same time having enough players on the pitch that are in good form".
Fatigue is less of an issue for the experienced players like Jorge Grant who know how to manage their bodies. MA has to concentrate on the younger players. At the training ground he can regulate player re-hab, pre-hab and minutes. Away from training, MA has to ensure the younger players take on board the message about eating and drinking correctly as down the line it will have an effect.
"If you want to be successful these are the things, challenges you've got to overcome - deal with".
Plymouth Argyle - Aside from not scoring, MA felt The Imps played brilliantly, previously in The FA Cup tie at Home Park; probably one of the top ten performances this season.
"I'll take right now a lesser performance and three points".
MA feels that the way the teams play actually suits both sides which should give rise to a good game.
Plymouth have a good pitch which is both large and of a decent quality which helps; preferably with no wind.
