INJURIES are set to take a toll on Jake Buxton’s squad as the Brewers prepare for their first home League One game of the season.
Neal Eardley, Charles Vernam, Michael Bostwick and Luke Varney are all set to miss tomorrow’s game at the Pirelli Stadium (kick off 3pm), as well as Reece Hutchinson who has yet to feature this season thanks to a foot injury.
In addition, the Brewers will be without the services of the suspended John-Joe O’Toole and Kieran O’Hara.
But two new loan signings, Jake Roles and Indiana Vassilev, have boosted squad numbers at the Pirelli Stadium.
Buxton said: “There are a few bodies injured at the minute who are recovering in the treatment room.
“They add to Reece who has been a long-term injury but who is starting to make progress.
“The ideal situation is that you would have everyone fit and available for selection but it’s a great experience for the young boys who have had to step up. Players got minutes on Tuesday night who might not have done otherwise so we deal with it and crack on.
“The suspensions are on top of that and we are still waiting some clarity from the EFL regarding Kieran O’Hara and what games he has missed as we want to get them in as soon as possible.
“John-Joe has two games to go and that’s a blow but hopefully he will learn from the mistake he made.
“But we aren’t feeling sorry for ourselves – not one bit- and we are looking forward to the challenge of Accrington.
“It’s a difficult period due to the injuries we have got – but no-one ever said it was going to be easy. It’s a tough challenge but I back whatever lads we put out there.”
It’s only two weeks since Accrington were last at the Pirelli with the Brewers knocking the visitors out of the Carabao Cup on penalties.
Buxton said: “They were very comfortable matching us up and they might stick to that. They caused us problems at the top end of the pitch as well. Every Accrington team has a go and we expect it to be the same here.
“They are a little bit stronger than the last time we played them so it will be a tough task but one we will relish.”