Doncaster Rovers: Ferguson out to spoil Nigel Clough’s homecoming

Darren Ferguson wants his Doncaster Rovers side to turn party-poopers for Nigel Clough’s big Burton Albion homecoming this weekend.
Darren FergusonDarren Ferguson
Darren Ferguson

On Saturday Clough will be back at the Pirelli Stadium for the first time since returning to the Brewers almost seven years after his initial departure.

Ferguson expects the 49-year-old to be given a hero’s welcome after setting in motion the club’s promotion to the Football League six years ago.

Nigel CloughNigel Clough
Nigel Clough
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And he says Rovers will have to be ready to start quickly so they are not lost among the atmosphere.

“The big thing is this game is that it’s Nigel’s first home game back,” Ferguson said. “He’s very well respected there.

“The crowd will be up for it, Nigel going back there, because he did a great job when he was there before.

“We will have that to deal with and maybe I will have to speak to the players about us starting well.

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“But when a team is top of the league and flying, you’re going to get that any way.

“They’re a hard working, well functioned team with a lot of energy.

“It’s going to be a tough, tough game for us.”

Burton sit five points clear at the top of the table following last weekend’s impressive 3-0 win at Gillingham.

With Rovers on a run of eight wins in ten matches, Ferguson feels this is the ideal time for his side to take on the league leaders.

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But he warned Rovers will need a complete performance to bring anything home from the trip.

He said: “It’s a good challenge for us at a good time.

“We’ve just picked up some good wins and this is a challenge against the team deservedly top of the league.

“We’re looking forward to it.

“Some games you go in thinking we’re going to have to be good at keeping the ball or be good at the defensive aspect.

“In this game we’re going to have to be good all round to get the win. On and off the ball.

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“But I fully expect if we go there, match them in certain departments and play to our capabilities, then we can win the game.”

Felipe Mattioni started running in training yesterday and will be assessed ahead of the Burton trip as he continues his recovery from a calf injury.

Dany N’Guessan will train today but is unlikely to be considered for the Burton game. Gary MacKenzie will be out until the New Year.