Johnson pleased by north west preparation
Posted: Thursday, September 20th 2018
Author
Johnson aiming to claw back Wolves
Thursday, December 28th 2017
Lee Johnson says City need to beat runaway Sky Bet Championship leaders Wolves on Saturday for the sake of the league – as well as their own cause.
The head coach is good friends with his Wolves opposite number Nuno Espirito Santos, having taken his coaching badges alongside the Portuguese.
Under Santos’ guidance, Wolves have taken the division by storm this season. They’ve won eight of their last ten Championship games to build an eight-point lead on the chasing pack.
Johnson said: “It’ll be a tough game on Saturday but we’ll do everything we can to get a result for the City faithful.
“They’ve spent a lot of money on their squad but it’s alright spending money – you still have to get the right players in and they’ve built a fantastic squad.
“I think from the league’s point of view, it’s important we win the game to bring Wolves back into us and the rest.
“It’s a big game and the players have to recover, rest up and be ready, including our young lads.”
BIG CROWDS
He added: “A lot of money has to be shelled out at Christmas, so it was a great crowd against Reading (23,116) and we’re very appreciative of that support.
“We’re going to need a similar type atmosphere to the Manchester United game and the second half against Reading because Wolves are a top, top side.”
With regards to his friendship with Santos, Johnson continued: “We share the odd text message, but for both teams and players on the day it will be all about winning. We’ll share a drink after, win, lose or draw, before moving on.”
The largest league crowd of season is guaranteed at Ashton Gate, with 24,500-plus set to descend on BS3. Tickets remain available on general sale.
INJURY CONCERNS
Nathan Baker and Jamie Paterson will both be assessed for hamstring injuries before Johnson picks his side for the Sky-televised game.
Both left the pitch early on Boxing Day in the 2-0 victory over Reading.
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