We are indebted to Imps fan Mark Bullivant who got his responses to us shortly after our deadline, but he made the effort so it’s the least we can do to get them in print especially as he has done such a good job, so here we go, a double helping this week with Trash Talk – Take 2.
Interesting fact about Lincoln City?
Our crest, known as the Lincoln Imp, depicts a creature sent by Satan to the City’s Cathedral.
Who is your key player for the season?
I would think Jorge Grant, during pre-season and our opening competitive fixtures, Jorge has played an influential part in the side, so much so that he has been captain in the absence of Liam Bridcutt. Jorge can play on the wings, or down the middle. So far, he has played down the middle, putting in several outstanding performances sitting just in-front of the defence. As much as Jorge can play on the wing, his standout performances have come in the middle. On top of this, his set-pieces are a real threat to come up against.
Who could be the surprise star in the squad?
James Jones, I should put Conor McGrandles, but we won’t go there!
James Jones is one who I think will become a key figure in the Imps’ squad. Arriving from Crewe in the summer, James has become a key figure in our midfield, alongside Conor and Jorge. His pressing in the midfield is key to winning the ball back, but he can also track back and make key tackles. His ability to carry the ball forward is also a key reason as to why Michael Appleton brought him in. I certainly expect him to pop up with several key goals during our season from breaking forwards with the ball.
How are Lincoln likely to play?
Michael Appleton’s side will play an attractive style of football, by keeping the ball on the ground, with a slick passing approach. We’re not afraid to play the ball round the back and wait for the right moment to break forward with our pacey wingers, however we also aren’t scared to play it into our attack, who look to turn and create opportunities for the side. This system was something we looked to implement last season, but we never really got going due to having the wrong types of players in the squad. Now Michael has brought in the players he would like, things are looking very promising for the season ahead.
What are your goals for the campaign?
I think this season is about consolidation in a very tough league, something Michael has openly admitted. With the current financial implications from COVID-19, I think any Imps fan would take a mid-table and above finish in what could be a very hard league.
What do you see as the MK Dons strengths?
I get the impression Russel Martin is looking to implement an attractive style of play, similar to Michael Appleton’s. The recent signing of Scott Fraser was certainly an impressive one, which certainly suggests you will be looking to play the ball on the floor. Whenever we have played MK, they have been extremely tough to break down and I expect a tough test come Saturday.
What are your predictions for this fixture?
Whilst I would love an Imps win, I think Saturday’s match will be a draw. Both sides have made similar signings and are still bedding players in. I’m going to go with a 1-1 draw.
Any other comments?
It’s a shame our fans are unable to attend the match, as I’m sure you are all aware of the impact they had on the 2018/19 season, when we took over 4,000 fans! Our second goal by Bruno Andrade in the last minute was one us Imps fans will remember for a long time!
