Robbo tells players to have no fear in derby clash

STEPHEN Robinson will get his first taste of a Latics v Dale derby tomorrow

TOMORROW'S derby at Rochdale is just another game between two clubs of a fairly equal financial footing.

That's the verdict of Athletic manager Stephen Robinson, who says that while the Spotland clash should attract a relatively large crowd it won't make any difference in terms of his side's approach.

Robinson admits to admiring the work done by Keith Hill, who is now in the fourth season of his second spell at Dale and lying ninth in the Sky Bet League One table, six points better off than Athletic.

CHANGED

But while Athletic's squad has changed almost entirely, compared to a settled pool of players working under Hill (pictured, right), the manager sees no reason why his side can't pick up a fourth league win of the season - and a fourth win in six outings in all competitions.

"We know plenty of our fans will turn up for the game and there will be a really good atmosphere," said Robinson, who promises his side will be positive as well as organised.

"Bragging rights are up for grabs and we understand the importance for the fans.

"From our perspective, we won't be treating it any differently to any other game - giving full commitment to it as always.

"Rochdale are probably very similar to us in terms of their budget.

"They went on a brilliant run of six wins in a row and shot up the table and it shows how quickly things can change in a tight division.

"We know that they are a good team. They are very organised and Keith Hill has done very well with them.

"He has brought players in on a tight budget and Rochdale are a long way ahead of us in terms of what he has been able to put together over the years.

"But we go there with no fears. There is nothing for us to be scared of in this league and we will go out and play in the same way."

Selection-wise, the main dilemmas appear to lie in the wide midfield areas and up front.

BRIGHT

Ryan McLaughlin's bright show as a substitute in last week's Bristol Rovers defeat could see him start, with Carl Winchester's place vulnerable after he was brought off in his fellow countryman's favour.

Strike pair Lee Erwin and Freddie Ladapo have both been in scoring touch recently so could be given another chance to form a partnership, though Darius Osei and Billy Mckay will be keen to take their chance if offered.

"We have no injury concerns at the moment," Robinson added. "Lee Croft (back) has been in training this week, but I wouldn't imagine he will be 100-per-cent fit."