Bristol Rovers team news ahead of Crawley as Gas face right-back shortage amid fresh issues

Rovers boss thanks Crawley for friendly amid injury crisis

With James Connolly, Josh Grant and Luca Hoole all ruled out, Rovers are facing a selection headache at right-back ahead of Crawley Town’s visit.

Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton has revealed his gratitude to Crawley Town for agreeing to a friendly last weekend as his injury crisis continues. The Gas were without 11 first-team players for the 2-1 win over Championship side Luton Town, with teenager Alfie Clarke forced to play at right-back.

Clarke is likely to continue in that role against Crawley, with James Connolly, Josh Grant and Luca Hoole all ruled out. Barton admitted that the situation is far from ideal, but he is hopeful that some of his injured players will be fit to return for the League Two opener against Rochdale on August 6.

“It’s not ideal, but we’ve got a couple of weeks until the start of the season and we’re hoping to get some players back,” Barton said. “We’re grateful to Crawley for agreeing to the friendly because it gave us a chance to get some minutes into the legs of some of our players who haven’t played much in pre-season.”

In addition to the right-back shortage, Rovers are also without midfielder Sam Finley, who is recovering from an ankle injury. Striker Aaron Collins is also a doubt after picking up a knock in the win over Luton.

Despite the injury problems, Barton is confident that his team can make a strong start to the season. “We’ve got a good squad and we’re working hard in pre-season,” Barton said. “We know that there are going to be some tough games, but we’re confident that we can compete with anyone in this league.”