Boss says goalkeeper needed a rest at the weekend

Steve Phillips missed Saturday’s game against Bradford last weekend after being granted time off by manager Steve Davis because his wife is about to give birth. Phillips, 35, is back in training now and will be challenging for a recall against Wycombe in the FA Cup this weekend after having a much-needed rest.

With Phillips rested, Steve Davis chose to recall Alan Martin just ahead of youngster Ben Garratt, who has been pushing for his first start of the season.

Steve Davis explained to the club’s official web-site: “I just thought that Steve needed some time off. He was exhausted and has taken a lot on with his coaching and charity work and I just felt it would do him good to have a bit of rest.

“His wife is pregnant and due to give birth very soon, so it was just important that he spend some time with her. I think it would have done him some good.

“I then had a decision to make over the goalkeeper and there really was nothing in it. Both had trained well during the week and full credit to Ben, because he is still young and pushing them very hard.

“I just didn’t think it was right to bring into that game when we have had a few poor results at home. I just thought Alan would handle that better and in the end the decision proved right. “