Rochdale head coach Jimmy Watson has previewed his side's upcoming League Two fixture against Colchester United, detailing injury concerns and transfer plans. Speaking to reporters ahead of Saturday's trip to the JobServe Community Stadium, Watson confirmed his squad remains stretched ahead of the match.
Jimmy Watson provided a mixed update on his squad's fitness. He confirmed that forward Jonny Smith is now available for minutes after a cautious build-up. However, defenders Laurence Maguire and Devante Rodney are both sidelined. Maguire has suffered a setback in his recovery, while Rodney continues to struggle with tightness in his glute. Watson admitted he wished he had more positive news, stating no other players are set to return this week. Fans can monitor the latest squad availability on our dedicated injuries page.
Watson reflected on the disappointment of last weekend's result against Crawley Town. He said the group was devastated in the dressing room, a reaction he took responsibility for managing. The coach emphasised the need to pick the players up and remind them of the ups and downs inherent in football. He pointed to positives in the performance beyond the scoreline, noting the team is fully committed to the process of improvement. Watson stressed the importance of sticking together and maintaining a positive, but realistic, mindset.
With the transfer window closing on Tuesday, Watson confirmed Rochdale are working tirelessly to add to the squad. The head coach said the club is looking to bring in one, possibly two, new players. He highlighted the long hours being spent on identifying the right targets who suit Rochdale both as players and people. A key constraint is the loan market, as the club has only one remaining loan spot available for their matchday squad, with regulations limiting them to five.
Jimmy Watson expects a difficult game against Colchester United this Saturday. He praised the U's experienced management team and their organisation, noting they are hard to break down. Watson warned that Colchester are effective with balls into the box and from set-pieces, areas his team must be prepared for. He stated Rochdale require an improved performance to get a result on the road. The full schedule of upcoming games for both teams can be viewed on our fixtures list.
The Rochdale boss also discussed recent arrival Kane Taylor. Watson highlighted the forward's technical quality, developed during his time in academies at Manchester City and Aston Villa. He described Taylor as very athletic, capable of playing multiple positions, and a player who can run in behind to link play. These attributes are seen as vital for a squad currently missing several players through injury. Rochdale's next match is away to Colchester United on Saturday, September 5th.
