The Latics take on old rivals Rochdale at Spotland on Saturday. After beating league leaders Scunthorpe United they failed again at home to Bristol Rovers. A disillusioned manager, Stephen Robinson, said,
“If we are take a positive from it, it's that we still created chances and opportunities and kept going. I never question the players' desire or attitude. The group of players we have got here, the attitude towards the club is terrific. But the recovery and energy levels at times, for four or five of them, looked way off from what they were on Tuesday night. We did have fears over Cameron Dummigan, Carl Winchester, Lee Erwin and possibly Ryan Flynn for the amount of work put in against Scunthorpe. We don't have that calibre of player to come in as a like-for-like, whereas Bristol Rovers have done it for three years where they change it all the time. It's difficult to play against, as you don't know what you are up against or what system. They had a freshness about them and credit to their management team.”
The manager has hinted that changes will be made at Rochdale. He went on, “We have players chomping at the bit to get in now. Maybe I have to look at even when we do win, to freshen it and change things up. We need to make sure we bounce back. Rochdale is a big game and the crowd will back us. The boys need to get their energy levels back. I have no doubts about their desire and commitment. It's making sure they are able to produce the levels of energy. Certain players need to be fitter.”