Andy Mangan delivers an injury update for Bristol Rovers while previewing the Charlton game.
Jevani Brown and James Wilson were two of the players who did not play against Barnsley on Saturday.
Andy Mangan has offered an update on Jevani Brown and James Wilson’s injuries ahead of Tuesday night’s trip to Charlton Athletic.
The summer acquisitions, along with James Belshaw, were both surprising absentees from Bristol Rovers’ 1-1 draw at home to Barnsley on Saturday.
When queried about the goalkeeper’s absence after the game, Mangan responded, “That’s something you’ll have to speak to the manager about.” Unfortunately, that is much above my pay grade.”
Brown and Wilson, on the other hand, were both absent due to injuries that should not be too serious.
“Jevani won’t be too long,” the Rovers manager said to Bristol Live. “I just felt something when he stiffened up towards the end of the Ipswich game.”
“James Wilson won’t be around for long either.” He was flattened by Connor Taylor last week, so he’s had a niggle. There was no use in putting him at risk because we’re so strong in that area.”
Saturday was also Mangan’s penultimate game in command, with Joey Barton having completed his three-game stadium ban, which had kept the manager out of the Gas’ first three games of the season.
Barton will return to the Valley bench on Tuesday evening, but as part of his farewell media responsibilities, Mangan previewed the trip to the capital, adding, “I think they’ve signed some really good players if I’m honest.”
“We were watching them last week as well, and they’re a really good side.” Someone who has hired a new manager, and I assume they have new owners as well, is doing well.
“How come you don’t want these tests?” These tests put us to the test. We’ve played two of the teams that are considered favorites to be promoted. Charlton are another possibility because we go there with no fear since we’ve dominated the game in so many ways.
“We should be excited about this challenge and look forward to it.” I believe we will do exceptionally well. We’re going to score some points against someone at some time. Someone is going to set us ablaze, and it might be anything.”
Rovers’ first three league opponents, as well as Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup, had all previously been Premier League sides, according to the coach, who exclaimed: “All ex-Premier League teams.” That is what we aspire to be. That is what we are all striving for: to become a Championship club.
“There is a lot of optimism surrounding the club, but the only way to increase that optimism is to win.” You must triumph. Yes, a few of really good performances, but fellas, we have to win.”
Finally, Mangan indicated that no big alterations are planned to accommodate the hectic opening schedule, telling Bristol Live: “What we normally do here, the process is that they’ll have a day off tomorrow.” They’ll arrive on Monday, and we’ll just have to wait and see how the bodies are. They’ll be alright because there’s a good recuperation system here. It’s just a matter of managing the timings between days so that everything works out.”
Rovers are still without a win this season, but they have produced two fine league performances against tough opposition, and they will be trying for a third successive victory over Charlton, having done the double over the Addicks last season.