Latics ready for season's opener
Stevenage’s newcomers include Oumare Tounkara who increases the former Latics contingent at Stevenage to four as he joins Filipe Morais, Chris Day and Lee Hills.
And it is a case of all change at both clubs with Latics making nine summer signings and Stevenage six.
Latics’ 2013/14 campaign kicks off in Hertfordshire with a Sky Bet League 1 fixture at Stevenage.
And with five strikers in Latics’ squad, Johnson believes attack is the best form of defence as says he will be adopting an adventurous approach and will be looking to win every game.
Johnson believes it could be a “fiery” encounter but also one which will be good to watch.
“I have played against Graham Westley’s sides for years. He has done well as a manager and had a long career and successes,” he explained.
Manager Lee Johnson says he is looking forward to pitting his wits against Graham Westley who is beginning his third spell in charge of Stevenage who he took into the Football League.
LAST SEASON
25/08/2012: Latics 0, Stevenage 1
19/02/2013: Stevenage 1, Latics 2
TEAM NEWS
James Dayton is Latics’ only injury doubt after picking up a knock in training as they include all nine summer signings in their squad.Stevenage are likely to hand competitive debuts to Sam Wedgbury, Luke Jones, Simon Heslop, Oumare Tounkara and Jordan Burrow who should all play some part in this fixture, but Dani Lopez is suspended while Ben Chorley and Jimmy Smith are ruled out through injury.
PRE-SEASON FORM
Latics competed their five match pre-season programme unbeaten. They comprised wins against Curzon Ashton, Macclesfield Town and Huddersfield Town and draws against Dinamo Bucharest and Accrington Stanley. Stevenage have won three and drawn one of their six friendlies beating Biggleswade Town, QPR X1 and Hitchin Town.
MAN TO WATCH
TICKET NEWS
Winger Luke Freeman, who was signed from Arsenal, has done well pre-season and most opposing clubs have identified him as Stevenage’s dangerman.
Tickets prices are for matchday. Those bought from Boundary Park before 3.30pm on Friday are discounted by £2 and £1 for under-sevens.
Over-60's/students: £19
Adult: £22
16/21 years: £14
Under-seven: £8
7/15 years: £12
Wheelchair (free carer): £15
Ambulant disabled (free carer): £15
Wheelchair users must book their places in advance by telephoning 01438 223223.
TRAVEL NEWS
There could be possible delays caused by the Eastern Electrics 2013 musical festival at nearby Knebworth. Fans leaving the A1 should do so at junction eight (Stevenage North) as junction seven, which they would normally use, is closed.