McDermott set to lead Mariners out tomorrow

By: Richard Lord
Date: 03/02/2002

MANAGER Paul Groves looks set to give club captain John McDermott the chance to lead his Grimsby side out on Saturday as they entertain Bradford at Blundell Park. Macca has been absent from the team since he sustained a calf injury back in October against Gillingham.

That game turned out to be Town's first home defeat of the season and a downturn in results coincided with the absence of the experienced defender. He is now expected to make his return tomorrow, taking over the captaincy of Tony Gallimore.

Paul Groves, speaking to the Evening Telegraph, spoke of his plans for the crunch game tomorrow afternoon. Speaking of McDermott he said: "He's an experienced player who can play at this level and he gives us another option to go to 4-4-2.

"There are a lot of young players who are trying to find their way in the first division in the first season and they need some help and guidance. Simon Ford, Chris Thompson, Phil Jevons, Ben Chapman and Mick Boulding, the list is endless. Macca takes that responsibility on his shoulders and carries it" he added.

It will also be on-loan front man Robert Taylor's home debut, the gaffer spoke of the Wolves striker: "Robert has given us a physical presence that we've missed and I'm sure the fans will welcome him like they have in the away games."

However, Groves has the big match in perspective and knows just how important three points will be at full-time tomorrow afternoon. "What we need to produce is a performance like the one against West Brom with the added bonus of a couple of goals.

"I'm mindful that we can't put a load of pressure on them by insisting it's a game we've got to win. We can't win every home game for the rest of the season, but we will be trying to do that.

"We'll be getting on the front foot and taking the game to them."

Meanwhile Paul Raven turned up for training with symptoms of the flu, which may leave the manager relying on the former Baggie to play despite illness. The boss himself is suspended, which would leave just young Simon Ford as the only fit 'senior' central defender at the club.

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