It’s not all Rover for Ammies in group game
MANAGER Graham Alexander insists Salford City will do their utmost to defeat Tranmere Rovers in the Leasing.com Trophy tonight, despite already progressing in the competition.
The Ammies have secured a place in the knockout stages, despite having played only once in the trophy this season, after Bury’s expulsion from the Football League shortened the size of Group C to three clubs.
Salford’s fate in the competition was sealed when Tranmere beat Aston Villa Under-21s on October 10 – resigning the Villains to bottom spot – and although Alexander admitted he will field a rotated side, he also stressed the importance of the trophy.
“We’ve always given the opportunity for the squad to play in these games,” he said.
“It’s a brilliant competition for teams at our level and for letting the lads who work exceptionally hard and are not getting out on the pitch at the minute to go and show what they can do.
“But we’re going there and certainly looking to win the game.
“We will not change anything in our preparation or our messages to the players. It’s a chance for them to go and show what they’re about and show the true strength of our squad.
“We’ve tried to be a settled team, but we’ve had to make one or two changes each game because of either injury, suspension or cup tied, so we’ve had a good value from our squad. It’ll be a tough game, it’s a really tough place to go, but we want to go there and win.”
Salford, meanwhile, will travel to Oldham Athletic in the second round of the FA Cup if they beat Burton in their first round replay.