Andre Gray will not face Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium this weekend having left Plymouth Argyle at the end of his short-term contract.
The former Watford striker scored three times in 13 games but was only ever on a three month deal, which means the Greens could be light up front against Stoke. Ryan Hardie faces a late fitness check after going off with a shoulder injury in the New Year’s Day draw with Bristol City.
Mustapha Bundu is not expected to be back from his hamstring injury, meaning Michael Obafemi is the only other fit striker. Lewis Gibson is also a doubt after missing the Robins match with a dead leg.
Interim boss Kevin Nancekivell, in charge after Wayne Rooney’s departure, admits he doesn’t know what to expect with Stoke under new management following the appointment of Mark Robins this week.
“It’s difficult because obviously a new manager comes in, might have his own ideas and want to change players, change systems, etc,” Nancekivell told the club website. “That’s the challenge for our analysis lads to get their heads around and then feed back to us.
“Stoke have got some good players. It’s a big football club. Any game in the Championship is a real challenge. We’ll be facing it head-on this Saturday.
“The [Bristol City] game went reasonably well. We were delighted to get a point. I thought the lads were brilliant; I was really proud of them. They gave everything they’ve got. Straight after the game you’re recovering, you’re reviewing and you’re preparing really.
“I think we’ve got to have a bit more belief in ourselves. We’ve got to continue the same workrate and attitude that we showed on Wednesday in the game. If we can do that, believe in ourselves, tighten up at the back, make sure we’re nice and secure, as well as being a goalscoring threat. All the components that you need to have to win a game of football.
“We’re looking forward to it. We’re ready for it. The boys are up for it. I’m sure about that and we’ll be good to go.”
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