BREWERS manager Dino Maamria hopes the international break gave his squad the chance to grab a few days rest to recharge batteries ahead of a very tough run of games leading up to Christmas.
Albion return to action against Mansfield Town in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy tomorrow at the Pirelli Stadium (kick off 7pm). The game sees the return of our former manager Nigel Clough with the winners going into the last 32 of the competition. The Stags remain unbeaten in League Two this season.
After that Albion face four teams in the League Two top five in succession starting with Peterborough away on Saturday with league leaders Portsmouth at home on November 28, Stevenage at home on December 9 and Oxford away on December 16.
Maamria said: “The players have used this break to recharge, to rest and recover after a hectic schedule. The injured players have been working really hard to try and get back for this difficult run of games we have got.
“After Mansfield it’s all teams in the top six so it’s going to be a tough period and the players needed this short break to get ready to go again.
“We always try to do the right thing for the group and rest seemed the best thing at this moment.
“We try not to dwell too much on results and make sure we prepare the best way possible for the next game and if that means giving them a couple of days rest then they will get that.”
Albion may be boosted tomorrow by the return of Kwadwo Baah.
Maamria said: “Hopefully KB will be OK to play some part tomorrow. It has been a hamstring injury, so we need to be careful but he’s getting there.
“John Brayford and Sam Hughes have had slight setbacks with their recovery so won’t play and Jasper Moon had concussion against Port Vale so can’t play tomorrow.
“We have to ride these injury waves and get everyone fit as we know the shapes we want and the players who can get results for us.
“We will pick the best team to beat Mansfield. Nigel has assembled a very good squad there. I’m not surprised they are doing well. and I expect them to be promoted this season. But the focus is on us tomorrow and about us doing the things we have done well in the past and all our thoughts are about winning tomorrow night.”
