FANS get their first home sighting of Town’s new signings against Blackburn Rovers tonight with manager Lee Clark admitting: “This is a benchmark test for us.”
Around 8,000 are expected at the Galpharm Stadium (7.45) for the visit of Sam Allardyce’s Premiership big-boys and Town have all seven summer arrivals in their squad.
Striker Jordan Rhodes, who returned to training yesterday after suffering heavy bruising to his left leg in the friendly at Bury, will have a late fitness test to see if he can be involved, and Clark is relishing what is a key 90 minutes in the build-up to the League I campaign on August 7.
“It would be nice to nail two or three things down with regard to the team and to keep as many players on for as long as possible, depending on how they are playing,” revealed Clark. “This is a good opportunity for my players to show at this stage they can produce the goods against a top-level team.
“Blackburn had a good season in the Premiership and it’s going to be a big test.
“When a test comes along, though, it’s important you respond and, while this is a big test, it’s right we should step up and play Premiership opposition.”
Supporters will be keen to check on exciting widemen Graham Carey (pictured) and Lee Croft, as well as midfield playmakers Joey Gudjonsson – who can expect a hot reception from the Rovers faithful as a former Burnley player – and Scott Arfield. Jamie McCombe and Gary Naysmith will hope to start at the back while keeper Ian Bennett may also get a run-out.
“We have been very pleased with the attitude and application of the lads since we’ve been back and, as we are in our fourth week, the preparation has been spot on,” added Clark.
“The new lads have settled in well and now I want us to perform. I want us to play at a quicker tempo, be positive in a physical sense and produce the attacking threat which I know we are capable of.”
