Swindon host Exeter tomorrow in a game which should be closely contested. Town lost their last game against Norwich, while the Grecians lost 2-1 to Charlton.
Swindon may see Luke Norris on the bench for the visit of Exeter. The 24-year-old dislocated his shoulder against Carlisle last Saturday, but a scan has shown that no further damage, has been done. Kyle Knoyle has been confirmed to be out for six weeks, and it’s unlikely that Donal McDermott will play. Town are also assessing the fitness of Dion Conroy (shoulder), John Goddard (Swollen toe) and Amine Linganzi who’s injury hasn’t yet been specified.
A 4-4-2 is likely to be used for Swindon. Here’s my predicted XI for the visit of Exeter.
Goalkeeper:
Lawrence Vigouroux
The Chilean shot-stopper has been with Swindon since 2015, and he saved a penalty on his debut for Swindon. He started his career with Tottenham before moving to Liverpool. Vigouroux has been an important player for the last couple of seasons, and he has kept Swindon in games on numerous occasions. The alternative for Vigouroux would be youngster Will Henry who also saved a penalty on his debut.
Right back:
Ben Purkiss
The former Port Vale captain was David Flitcroft’s fourth signing of the summer. He has played in both of Swindon’s games so far this season. Purkiss started his career with Sheffield United, but he never made a first-team appearance for the Blades. He has since played for Oxford, Walsall and Port Vale. Swindon haven’t got much cover at right back currently with the only other right back being Kyle Knoyle who is currently injured.
Centre Backs:
Olly Lancashire & Chris Robertson
The pair were both brought in by David Flitcroft in June. Lancashire has been appointed captain, and he scored the opener against Norwich on Tuesday. 31-year-old Chris Robertson made his debut on Tuesday as he stepped in for the injured Dion Conroy. Conroy would normally be in the starting eleven, but it is likely that Flitcroft doesn’t want to rush him back into action.
Left Back:
Chris Hussey
Hussey has been a big part of Swindon’s campaign already. Three of Swindon’s four goals this season have been set up by a Chris Hussey free-kick. Both of Town’s goals against Norwich were set up by the Sheffield United loanee. He looks like a big threat going forward, and he possesses a dangerous free-kick which is why Exeter aren’t going to want to give away too many free-kicks on Saturday.
Centre Midfielders:
James Dunne & Tom Smith
Arsenal graduate James Dunne has been appointed vice-captain at the club. He was Flitcroft’s second signing of the summer. Flitcroft would probably want to play Linganzi, but we don’t know the extent of his injury, so I’m guessing that he won’t be available for Saturday. Tom Smith has come through the ranks at Swindon, and he has become fans favourite for his hard-tackling and work rate.
Left Midfield:
James Brophy
James Brophy joined Town from Edgware Town in 2015. He can be dangerous when he attacks, but his defending left alot to be admired last season, so a more attacking role suits the 23-year-old. However, alot of fans have criticised him for being too “lightweight.” But when he goes on a run he can leave defenders on their back side. But Brophy needs to be more consistent.
Right Midfield:
John Goddard
Swindon beat many Championship clubs to the signature of John Goddard. The former Woking midfielder scored three goals for Swindon last season as they were relegated, to League Two. He can produce moments of brilliance but his decision making isn’t the best. He has been tipped by many to set League Two alight.
Strikers:
Paul Mullin & Harry Smith
Paul Mullin has already proved a lot of people wrong about his goalscoring ability. He has already scored two goals this season, and he looks like a real threat. It is unlikely Luke Norris will play, and Kaiyne Woolery isn’t match fit yet. Therefore, the other striker partnering Paul Mullin up top should be Harry Smith. The 6ft 5in striker arrived on loan from Millwall and played against Norwich where he really should have scored at least one goal. However, Smith is a threat in the air and he distracts defenders from set pieces which allows room for other Town players.