Less hot air, more Gas is Robins’ clear focus

MARK Robins says he will be pleased to see the January transfer window close but insisted it will not distract Coventry City’s focus on today’s clash at Bristol Rovers.

The manager describes the trip to the Memorial Stadium as a “big game” for the sixth-placed Sky Blues, who lie five points off the top two with two games in hand.

The 13th-placed Rovers have been busy in the window and yesterday signed former Sky Blues defender Cian Harries from Swansea. He has a signed a two-and-a-half year deal though it looks unlikely he will be available today as the 22-year-old’s move needed international clearance.

It followed the loan arrivals of striker Timmy Abraham from Fulham, midfielder Josh Ginnelly from Preston, and goalkeeper Jamal Blackman from Chelsea.

Robins said: “You can make it a distraction if you want, but it’s the same as everything else, we’re focused on Bristol Rovers.

“We’re just looking forward to this window slamming shut and then we can get on with things.”

Coventry’s trip to the West Country – where they drew 2-2 in the FA Cup at the start of January before winning the replay – marks the start of a busy spell with eight games in just over four weeks.

“It’s another away game, and we’ve just got to make sure that we do the same things and are ready,” said Robins.

“We’re expecting a tough game but know we can go and play and just enjoy it and that’s the message for everybody is just to go and enjoy the rest of the season and see where it takes us, keep playing the football they’re playing and keep being brave because they’re good enough.”

The manager added: “The games are coming thick and fast, so everybody’s going to be involved, and ultimately we don’t want to lose anybody else if we can help it unless it’s something that I want to do, and we’ll see.

“They’re focused and once the windows shut, they’ll know where they are, and they’ll get on with it.

“In all fairness, that hasn’t been something that’s been an issue, the lads have just got on with things and they know there’s a chance of achieving something this year and they’re all on that.”

Harries’ move to the Memorial Stadium will increase the Coventry connection.

Ben Garner’s side already boast former Sky Blues players Abu Ogogo, Tom Davies, Josh Barrett and Jonson