FOOTBALL: MARK Robins admits the real test for his Sky Blues side is yet to come as they prepare to face Newport County at the Ricoh Arena tomorrow.
So far, Robins’ men have won both of their League Two fixtures – sitting pretty at the top of the fourth division table clear by two points, albeit after just two games.
Two clean sheets and two convincing wins have made the Sky Blues’ dressing room a positive place to be in – but Robins admits the real test will come when his side taste their first league defeat.
Speaking this morning, Robins said he expects Newport County to bring a physical threat to the Ricoh Arena – similar to what they have faced already this season.
He said: “The real test will come when we don’t win.
“Newport have some good players. Their manager has done a great job. He’s kept them in the division and is passionate about the club.
“I trust the dressing room. It’s a good mix of characters and we have some talented players in there.
“It’s always important to get the right mix of players in.
“There’s some good quality and know-how in the team with strong youngsters.
“I’m enjoying every minute of it. I’m excited how we’ve started.”
Robins highlighted the importance of fans’ backing so far this season, explaining the home support on opening day and last week at Grimsby was ‘brilliant’.
He added: “I’ve been in the job for five months, three of those months have been in the off season. We’ve had a cup final and brilliant reaction from the supporters too.”
He also didn’t rule out the option of some players going out on loan.
“We’ve loaned out a couple of players and we’re looking to see what we can do in terms of placements for those that haven’t featured and aren’t likely to,” Robins said.
“There are chances for the younger players to perform in our Under 23s team too. Young players need to work hard.
“And the lads that aren’t starting need to continue working hard.”
Only Ryan Haynes will be missing from tomorrow’s squad with Lee Burge returning to full training.
He said: “It’s just Ryan (Haynes) that we’re missing at the moment. He’ll be out for a few weeks but is making good progress.
“Lee (Burge) played in Monday’s U23s game and made some good saves and has been training.
“It’s a nice position to be in – to pick from all players.”
