Paul Tisdale knows he may have to resist the temptation to start Ben Reeves so soon after the midfielder’s return from the sidelines.
Reeves made his comeback from a knee injury in last weekend’s Sky Bet League One clash with Bristol Rovers – his first appearance since the opening-day victory over Shrewsbury Town, over two months ago.
The attacking midfielder had a positive impact off the bench and came through the cameo unscathed, but Dons boss Tisdale is still leaning on the side of caution when it comes to Reeves’ integration back into the side.
“The temptation is to throw him straight in but he’s only been back in training for two weeks,” Tisdale said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League One encounter with Coventry City.
“He will want to, I want him to, the fans will want him to and the players want him to but I’ve got to make a decision as to when it’s right or wrong. If this was pre-season, would I take a risk on a player playing 90 minutes after two weeks training? Probably not.
“The sooner he plays in our team the better, though, because we need the balance in our side, which we don’t have at the moment. He looks like he’ll be able to provide that balance.”
There was more positive news from Tisdale’s press conference in the form of Kieran Agard and Alex Gilbey, who are both back training after recent lay-offs – Agard through injury and Gilbey because of illness.
Tisdale revealed: “[Agard] was on the training ground [on Thursday]. He’s a week stronger than he was last week and, with another day’s training, there is no reason why he shouldn’t be in a position to be available on Saturday.
“Alex is better too and has trained the last couple of days. The same goes for him.”
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Paul Tisdale's MK Dons are in Stadium MK action on Saturday as they take on Coventry City in their latest Sky Bet League One encounter.
Tickets are priced at £22 adults, £17 seniors and £7 under-18s while under-12s go FREE with an accompanying adult.
Supporters can upgrade to premium seats in the East Centre for a £5 premium while an upgrade to clubRed is just £10 more.
Club Dons members are entitled to £5 discount on the matchday price for 10 EFL games while Young Dons members can take advantage of a £1 discount on prices - why not use that discount for today's match?
To book tickets click HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 200 5343.
