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Club News

Johnson Looking For Revenge This Weekend

6 November 2014

Club News

Johnson Looking For Revenge This Weekend

6 November 2014

Latics boss Lee Johnson is hoping to avenge the early season defeat against Leyton Orient as they visit SportsDirect.com Park in the first round of the FA Cup.

The manager was highly critical of his sides second half performance earlier in the season and is looking to get one over on the O's this Saturday.

He said: "It is a really good tie against a side who have gone for it this year but it hasn't gone well so far in the league. They have some really good players and I thought we had a really good 45 minutes against them earlier in the season. 

"The second half was probably the worst we have played all season. They ended up scoring goals which were individual errors and that game didn't sit well with me so I'm looking to put that to bed.

"They have a strong set up and quality on the break. They have big experienced defenders but have had a few injuries. They are a strong unit that are a powerful team in the division. They had a good year last year but have had a bit upheaval due to the Chairman changing."

The manager and forward Jonathan Forte were both nominated for the Football League Manager and Player of the Month awards and the manager spoke highly of the in-form 28-year-old.

"I think he's got a good chance of winning it. He has had a great month scoring five goals and they were good goals as well," the gaffer commented.

"It has coincided with the team's good form as well, it sometimes fits and will be perfect for him to get it. Maddison has had a very good month, scoring two 30-yard free kicks but I certainly think he has a good chance.

"I don't think I will win it but it is nice to be nominated because it means the team is doing well and that is what we want. It doesn't give me personal boost because it's not about me.

With games coming thick and fast, defenders Adam Lockwood and George Elokobi near a return to the squad and Johnson gave an update on where they are.

"Locky is definitely getting closer to coming back. I need to arrange a game to get him playing in that. I hope George will be a possibility for the Rochdale game," said the 33-year-old. 

"That will be our target but I don't want to push him because I want to have him for the rest of the season."

Watch both parts of the interview on Latics Player.

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