Bristol Rovers predicted starting XI for Rochdale trip - Key decision on whether to risk utility man

Bristol Rovers are on the road for the final time of the regular season in League Two as they travel to Rochdale.

Dale’s 18th-placed position would perhaps view this as a favourable fixture but their two defeats in 15 home matches means that this isn’t a forgone conclusion.

A win is a must if the Gas want to keep up their automatic promotion hopes whilst a loss would have them worried about their play-off position going in to the final day of the season.

Fortunately for Rovers, they’ve tasted defeat in the league just three times this season and are on a good run of form.

Here is how we think Joey Barton will line up his side against Rochdale at Spotland this afternoon.

Goalkeeper

A man-of-the-match display against the league leaders last week will give James Belshaw all the confidence he needs. Earned a valuable point for the Gas and will take his place in between the sticks again.

Anssi Jaakkola back on the bench to provide competition to Belshaw.

Defence

There’s a decision to make on whether to throw Josh Grant straight back in to the starting 11 after he missed last Saturday. He wasn’t risked as a precaution but is available again this week. Rovers will want to name their strongest 11 possible but if there is a need to prepare for the play-offs it may be wise to play another reliable option in Nick Anderton. For this game Grant should start but only if 100% fit.

At centre-back will be Connor Taylor who will use his disappointment of missing out on his award, to prove he is one of the best players in the league. Partnering him as always will be James Connolly, who is equally as good in this division.

At right-back will be Luca Hoole who has really made that position his own since his full introduction to the side in January.

Midfield

It’s vital that Sam Finley avoids any bookings in these last two matches as he could find himself absent for a potential play-off. Finley though is an energetic player and plays the game at full speed each time.

Influential captain Paul Coutts will act once more as the support for the defence whilst he allows Finley to move up the field.

On the flanks will be the tireless Harry Anderson who’s versatility will benefit him as should he need to move to left-back to accommodate any attacking substitute, it shouldn’t be an issue. Elliot Anderson who enjoys cutting in to score his goals will be on the opposite side with Antony Evans in the centre, as he hopes to deliver a big moment like he has done plenty of times this season.

Attack

Despite going another game without a goal, Aaron Collins is likely to get another start given what he brings to the team. Bringing others into play and getting in good attacking areas should be enough for him to hold down a place in the side.

A goal though would give him all the confidence he needs should the route of the play-offs be required by his club.

Leon Clarke is confirmed to be out for the remainder of the regular season, so that leaves just one challenger to Collins which is Ryan Loft. Loft had a chance to score against Forest Green but just couldn’t get it on target. He will be an option to look to if the game isn’t going in Rovers’ favour.

Bristol Rovers (4-2-3-1): James Belshaw; Luca Hoole, James Connolly, Connor Taylor, Josh Grant; Sam Finley, Paul Coutts; Elliot Anderson, Antony Evans, Harry Anderson; Aaron Collins.