Doncaster v Southend: Dickov opts against loans to maintain harmony

Rovers have a solid core of players who have bonded impressively since pre-season and while Dickov is still light in one or two areas in terms of depth, he wants the positive spirit and equilibrium in his camp to be maintained following an unbeaten start to the campaign.

He said: “With us having one or two getting so close back to fitness, the one thing we have tried to stay away from is getting in three, four or six loan players.

“We are aware that it is a real good group we have got who are close-knit and work hard for each other and all pull each other through.

“We don’t want to upset that; especially by bringing in short-term loans. Because people could be here for four to six weeks and be gone again and then someone else comes in, which is what has happened previously.”

Richard Chaplow is in the fray for Rovers after training yesterday morning, but Rob Jones (knee) is likely to miss out.

Paul Keegan and Dany N’Guessan are still sidelined for Rovers – although they could return to training at the end of this week.

On the prospects of Chaplow, who has missed the last two matches, starting, Dickov added: “The one thing Chappy is is a top professional and naturally very fit.

“We saw that in pre-season he looks after his body ever so well and if needed, I’d have no qualms about starting him.”

Dickov was impressed after Rovers’ 0-0 draw at Wigan on Sunday. “We’ve hit the bar and had three cleared off the line and on another day we win it comfortably, but considering we only made one change (from the Leeds game) and put in that performance, it was outstanding, the fitness and energy levels particularly.

“We passed and probed and defended brilliantly but performance wise I’m looking forward to the rest of the season and I’m quietly confident.”

Last six: Doncaster LLWDWD; Southend DWWDLL

Referee: S Stockbridge (Tyne and Wear)

Last time: Doncaster 5 Southend 1; May 16, 2008; League One play-offs.