No automatic way back after bans warns Dickov
Paul Dickov has warned his players that there is no automatic way back into Latics' first team following suspensions.Latics' manager has been frustrated to see five players already banned for picking up five bookings - James Wesolowski, Dean Furman, Jonathan Grounds, Cristian Montano (pictured) and Jose Baxter.
Dickov, who says his side has picked up far too many "stupid" bookings, said: "The players know if we win the game they miss, it will be hard for them to get back into the team.
"If we win, we tend to keep the same side and the suspensions gives others a chance.
"The players who came off the bench on Tuesday, and on other occasions, have been making an impression and really pushing for a chance to start on Saturday."
Dickov says Youssouf M'Changama, Grounds and Matt Smith are the three leading contenders for recalls against Shrewsbury on Saturday when Baxter and Montano are the latest players to be banned.
Latics' manager added he cannot remember anybody making a bad tackle.
"Whether it is down to the referees or the stupidity of the players, I don't know," he said.
Dickov says he can accept bookings for tackles, but not kicking the ball away or for arguing.
"That is stupid and earns an automatic fine as does reaching five bookings," he said.