ROBINS WANTS TO BEEF UP HIS SQUAD
COVENTRY boss Mark Robins says planning has already started for the summer transfer window and admits clubs may need to carry greater numbers to cope with the impact of the World Cup in Qatar, which starts in November.
The Sky Blues have been one of the surprise packages of the season and remain in play-off contention, but Robins’ focus is on making sure his squad is in the right place to cope with the extra fixture congestion that will come at the start of next season.
“We have to be mindful of the number of games we have got next season with 21 to be played before November 12th, and I have made the club and board aware of that as you have to have sufficient numbers because you are going to get injuries playing games backto-back,” Robins said.
“But we are going to need numbers. You try to improve the quality
which means there’s an added cost, and that has an impact on the numbers you can carry, so we have to be mindful of that.”
Robins also believes the club may need to look to their academy players to bolster the squad next season, with some thrown into first-team action earlier than planned.
“There may be younger players thrown in at the deep end when they are needed,” Robins added.
“But, ultimately, it remains to be seen what I will do in the summer.
“I know I am going to have to do a couple of things, but it depends on the number I have to spend and what I can generate.”
Robins has also warned the club’s fans to stay off the pitch after a number came on during their draw with Preston. He added: “The people that came onto the pitch deserve all they have coming to them. Stay off !”