Three changes as Joey Barton deals with injury crisis - Bristol Rovers predicted XI v Burton Albion

Bristol Rovers travel to Burton Albion in League One this weekend looking to bounce back from their 2-1 defeat at Oxford United.

Rovers performed well at the Kassam Stadium and were unlucky not to pick up any points in Oxfordshire.

The defeat saw three red cards issued, which included one for Gas forward Jevani Brown, who was sent off midway through the second-half following a second bookable offence.

Rovers have already lost three matches on the road so far this season and manager Joey Barton will be keen for his side to pick up a victory at the Pirelli Stadium.

With players coming back from injuries and the international break, there will be plenty of individuals that Barton will need to assess ahead of the weekend.

Below is how we think Bristol Rovers will line up against the Brewers...

Formation: (4-3-3)

This system has suited Barton’s side so far this season and with great results at home to Wigan and Port Vale recently, there would be no reason to change.

1. GK: Matthew Cox

The Brentford loanee has played every league game so far this season and has become a mainstay in between the sticks.

2. RB: James Gibbons

With Jack Hunt racing back to get fit after coming off against Oxford United and Luca Hoole picking up a knock whilst on international duty, it could be an opportunity for Gibbons to make his first league start of the season.

3. CB: Connor Taylor

The 21-year old is the only fit out-and-out centre half in the squad currently and has firmly cemented his position since he signed permantly in the summer from Stoke City.

4. CB: Joshua Grant

He has performed brilliantly at centre half as cover for the injured Tristan Crama and with Saturday looking a bit soon for James Wilson’s return from injury, Grant will likely start in the heart of defence once more.

5. LB: Harvey Vale

In his new position at fullback, Vale is one of the first names on the teamsheet at the minute, with Barton a huge fan of the Chelsea loanee.

6. CM: Ryan Woods

Having played both of the last two matches in the pivot, the Hull City loanee should feature in that role again on Saturday.

7. CM: Lamare Bogarde

With the news of Luke McCormick’s injury, the Aston Villa loanee is likely to start his seventh league game of the season.

8. CM: Antony Evans

The 25-year old is one of the most talented players in the side and it’s understood that captain Sam Finley is struggling with his fitness at the moment.

9. RW: Scott Sinclair

Luke Thomas is a few weeks away from match fitness and with Jevani Brown suspended, there could well be an opportunity for Sinclair to come in and start only his third league game of the season.

10. ST: Chris Martin

With John Marquis out injured, the new signing will lead the line and will be hoping to score his first goal for his new club.

11. LW: Aaron Collins

He’s undroppable at the moment, with three goals and three assist for Rovers so far this season, the Welshman will be vital if Barton’s side are to pick up any points in Staffordshire.