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Club News

OPPOSITION GUIDE: GRIMSBY TOWN

7 February 2020

Club News

OPPOSITION GUIDE: GRIMSBY TOWN

7 February 2020

City are preparing for their return to the Utilita Energy Stadium, tomorrow, hosting Grimsby Town in 'new' manager Stuart McCall's first game back at the club (3.00pm). 

Ian Holloway's men have enjoyed a recent revival since the former Premier League manager moved to the club, and are currently sat 17th in Sky Bet League Two. 

We have compiled an Opposition Guide packed full of detailed information on tomorrow's visitors.

JANUARY TRANSFER ACTIVITY

The Blundell Park outfit spemt Janaury strengthening their side with six incomings and three departures. 

Ins: Elliot Grandin (JS Saint-Pierroise), Bradley Garmston (Gillingham), Josh Benson (Burnley, loan), James Tilley (Brighton & Hove Albion), Billy Clarke (Plymouth Argyle), Anthony Glennon (Burnley, loan). 

Outs: Harry Cardwell (Chorley, loan), Ollie Battersby (Mickleover Sports, loan), Moses Ogbu (released). 

ONES TO WATCH

James Hanson:

A Bantams legend, Bradford-born Hanson made 335 appearances at the Utilita Energy Stadium between 2009 and 2017, scoring 91 goals. 

The former non-league striker went on to represent Sheffield United, Bury and AFC Wimbledon before moving to Blundell Park.

Billy Clarke: 

Bantams supporters will be no stranger to Billy Clarke, who has served two seperate spells at the Utilita Energy Stadium in recent years. 

The forward was part of City's historic run in the Emirates FA Cup over the 2014/15 campaign, and returned to West Yorkshire - for four months - last season. 

Luke Hendrie: 

Another former Bantam, Hendrie is no stranger to Stuart McCall after the City boss signed him on loan from Burnley in 2017. 

Son of City legend John, the 25-year-old defender began his career at Manchester United and has also represented Shrewsbury Town and Derby County. 

Charles Vernam: 

A 23-year-old, Vernam has been at Grimsby Town for over two years, having initially signed on loan in January 2018. 

The striker began his professional career at Derby County, having also spent time in Scunthorpe United's youth academy. 

THE MANAGER

Experienced manager Ian Holloway took the reins at Grimsby at the end of December, also becoming a share-owner at the club.

The 56-year-old boasts vast success on his managing CV, getting Blackpool promoted to the Premier League in 2010 and managing the Tangerines in the top flight.

The former Bristol Rovers midfielder, who also enjoyed spells at Brentford and Queens Park Rangers when playing, has also been in the hot seat at the Rs, Crystal Palace, Millwall and Leicester City.

THE CAPTAIN

Goalkeeper James McKeown is something of a Grimsby icon, having been at Blundell Park since 2011, making 444 appearances. 

Born in Birmingham, the 30-year-old stopper began his professional career with Peterborough United, after spells in the academies of Walsall and Coventry City. 

Loan spells in non-league football accompanied a stint playing at Rotterdam side RKSV Leonidas, in addition to making two appearances for Republic of Ireland Under-19s. 

LAST TIME OUT

Grimsby recorded their second game unbeaten last Saturday, drawing 2-2 at home to Forest Green Rovers. 

Grimsby Town 2 (Charles Vernam 19', Anthony Driscoll-Glennon 53')

Forest Green Rovers 2 (Odin Bailey 32', Jack Aitchison 50')

Sky Bet League Two

Saturday February 1st 2020

Attendance: 4,675

Grimsby: James McKeown (c); Luke Hendrie (booked 90+1'), Ludvig Öhman, Matthew Pollock, Anthony Driscoll-Glennon; Harry Clifton (booked 35', James Tilley 55'), Josh Benson, Elliott Whitehouse (Matt Green 83'); Billy Clarke, James Hanson (Max Wright 83'), Charles Vernham. Subs (not used): Sam Russell (GK), Luke Waterfall, Elliott Hewitt, Brandon Buckley. 

Ticktets for tomorrow's encounter are still on sale and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE


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