Whittle Recalled For Cup Clash

Last updated : 19 August 2003 By Andy Beill

Justin Whittle

Captain Whittle had to settle for a place on the bench against Darlington, coming on as a second half substitute for Richard Hinds. But with Marc Joseph ruled out due to a knee injury, Whittle is set to play from the start at the JJB Stadium this evening.

Manager Peter Taylor said: "I thought Justin did a good job when he came on against Darlington. He's strong, he's quick and he knows what it's all about at this level.

"I've no worries about picking him against Wigan. I hope he does well and makes it as hard as possible for me when it comes to picking a side for the next game. I don't mind problems like that."

Whittle himself said: "It seems I'm in the same position at the start of every season but you just have to keep your head down, work hard and fight for your place. If a chance comes along, you've got to make the most of it."

Midfielder Richie Appleby could join Joseph on the sidelines due to a foot injury. The pair should be fit for action when City go to Oxford on Saturday, but Steve Melton, Danny Webb and Andy Holt are included in the squad going to Wigan tonight.

However, Taylor has confirmed he will pick his strongest side possible, saying he is taking the Carling Cup "very seriously".

He said: "I won't be resting anyone. We all know the league is the priority but I don't want anyone holding back with the Oxford game in mind. We'll be going to Wigan and we'll be trying our best to win."

Jason Price and Damien Delaney have shrugged off knocks and will be in Taylor's side, while Andy Dawson, John Anderson and Ryan Williams are still out.

Expected line-up (4-4-2): Fettis; Thelwell, Whittle, Hinds, Delaney; Price, Green, Ashbee, Elliott; Burgess, Allsopp.
Subs: Musselwhite, Holt, Melton, Keates, Forrester.