Fleetwood boss Sheridan: Barton news has not disrupted plans to spoil Wigan's party

Fleetwood boss John Sheridan says all the talk of Joey Barton's appointment as manager has not disrupted his preparations for Saturday's clash with Wigan Athletic.
John SheridanJohn Sheridan
John Sheridan

Sheridan watched Paul Cook’s side beat Oxford United 1-0 on Tuesday thanks to Will Grigg’s goal in the dying stages.

They can clinch an immediate return to the Championship at Highbury but Town can ruin that promotion party.

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The departing Town boss is well aware of their abilities but warned his players will not roll over.

Wigan Athletic defeated Fleetwood Town when the two sides met in DecemberWigan Athletic defeated Fleetwood Town when the two sides met in December
Wigan Athletic defeated Fleetwood Town when the two sides met in December

He said: “I know Paul Cook really well, I’m big mates with him; he has done really well.

“He did well with Portsmouth and he has had success.

“I really like him and I do believe he has the best team; I don’t think they played well the other night but that is the sign of a good team.

“They have got some good players so it will be a tough game for us.

Wigan Athletic defeated Fleetwood Town when the two sides met in DecemberWigan Athletic defeated Fleetwood Town when the two sides met in December
Wigan Athletic defeated Fleetwood Town when the two sides met in December
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“I am really looking forward to it; it will be a tough test but I am confident we can win the game.

“Our home form of late has been good so we go into the game confident.

“It will be good because they will bring a few fans.

“Cookie knows me; whatever has gone on this week, he knows what I am like.

“He knows he will be in a tough game and that I want to win the game.

“Hopefully we come through as winners.”

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Town return to action, looking to make amends for last Saturday’s last-gasp 2-1 defeat at Blackpool.

An absentee from that game was central defender Cian Bolger, who missed the match following a concussion sustained in training.

However, he is set for a return after coming through training this week.

Sheridan said: “He had concussion and with the rules now you just have to be really strict on them which is only for Cian’s best interests as well.

“He did get a right whack in the face with the ball but he will be OK for Saturday.”