Cobblers set to make changes for EFL Trophy trip to Coventry City

The Cobblers are set to make a host of changes for Tuesday night's Checkatrade EFL Trophy trip to Coventry City.
OUT OF ACTION - Gaby Zakuani misses Tuesday's Checkatrade Trophy trip to Coventry City as he is on international dutyOUT OF ACTION - Gaby Zakuani misses Tuesday's Checkatrade Trophy trip to Coventry City as he is on international duty
OUT OF ACTION - Gaby Zakuani misses Tuesday's Checkatrade Trophy trip to Coventry City as he is on international duty

Central defender Gaby Zakuani is definitely out as he is on international duty with the Democratic Republic of Conga, and Town are to rest several other players who started Saturday’s 3-2 defeat to Bristol Rovers.

Due to competition rules, manager Rob Page must still select six of the starting line up from the Cobblers’ weekend fixture, but assistant boss Paul Wilkinson says several players are struggling with injuries.

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“We picked up three or four injuries on Saturday, and one or two of the boys with it being their fourth game in 10 days, it has taken a lot out of their bodies,” said Wilkinson, who was on media duty at Moulton College on Monday morning.

“I am not 100 per cent sure yet (who isn’t fit), and we’ll wait we have spoken to the physios and doctors this morning, but we have got niggles so we will see.

“It will probably be down to the wire before we know who is going to be available.”

Zakuani’s absence is a blow, but he is suspended for Saturday’s Sky Bet League One trip to Scunthorpe anyway due to his stoppage time sending-off against Bristol Rovers, and Lewin Nyatanga is likely to step in.

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Who else is going to be missing or who will play is up in the air at the moment, but Wilkinson says whoever does get their chance has to take it.

“Every day you come into work is a chance for the players to impress,” said the Town assistant manager.

“As a footballer that is the biggest thing, and for us Tuesday night is another important game and one we are looking to win.”