OVERSEXT Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink acknowledges that choosing his starting lineup for tomorrow’s Emirates FA Cup second round home match against Port Vale will be more difficult.
With the return of Deji Oshilaja from his three-match suspension and no new injury worries, Hasselbaink will have a near fully-fit squad to choose from.
But tomorrow’s clash may come too soon for Jacob Maddox, who picked up a hamstring injury in our defeat at MK Dons a few weeks ago.
“It does give me more of a headache, it is a difficult decision on whether I need to change anything or not for tomorrow,” said the Brewers manager.
“Cameron (Borthwick-Jackson) has been playing really well in that position and gives us something different.
“Lucas (Akins) has been playing well as a left wing-back so it’s a tough decision.
“I have a full bill of health. We had two players who had to come out of training on Tuesday but they returned on Thursday.
“Overall, we have everyone. Louis Moult (ankle) is training with the group and is looking better and better. Jacob Maddox (hamstring) is back and has trained but it might be too early for him tomorrow.”
Hasselbaink said his side must also remain professional and does not expect an easy game against the League Two Valiants, who have enjoyed a positive start to the 2021/22 season.
“I think it’s going to be a question of how professional we are – how we can show them respect by being at our best tomorrow,” said Hasselbaink.
“We know they are doing very well in their league, they’re winning on a regular basis so they know winning feels like and what needs to be done to get a win.
“We need to work hard and be hungry. We cannot underestimate anybody because they will come here tomorrow to win.”
With a great atmosphere expected tomorrow, Hasselbaink spoke on how key the Brewers support will be tomorrow in what is a local derby.
“I think it is very important to put Port Vale under pressure straight away,” added the Albion boss.
“You want to pin them back and then the crowd will get behind us and give us the energy we need in a game.
“We think it will be a great atmosphere tomorrow with what will hopefully be the right outcome for us.”
