Wade Elliott has challenged his squad to “vent their frustration” against Salford City as they bid to reach their first Papa Johns Trophy semi-final.
The Robins have an excellent opportunity to make history by reaching the last four, but face a difficult test against League Two Salford City who won the competition in 2019-20.
However, Wade Elliott’s side have struggled for form in recent weeks, losing three of the last four since a resounding 4-0 win against Chelsea U21’s in the third round of the competition last month.
Elliott’s problems have been compounded by the recent departure of Southampton forward Dan Nlundulu, who spent the first half of the season with Cheltenham but cut his loan spell short to join fellow League One outfit Bolton Wanderers.
On Monday night the club announced the signing of Stoke striker Will Goodwin on a two and a half year deal to replace Nlundulu, and although he will be in the squad for the game on Tuesday night, Alfie May and Charlie Brown expected to start up-front.
Lewis Freestone continues to be unavailable for selection due to a serious injury he picked up against Bristol Rovers, but other than that The Robins have no serious injury concerns.
Elliott was quick to recognise this tie as an opportunity to for the team to bounce back following a disappointing 2-1 loss to Morecambe on Saturday.
“I think the dressing room will be wounded off the back of today.
“It was a big game for us and they will be hurting, but at least we have a game on Tuesday and they can come out and vent their frustration.
“It’s a big game for the football club, and it doesn’t get any easier.
“We can either shy away from it, but collectively it’s what we work so hard for to be at this level and playing against those teams.”
Salford’s form going into tonight game is in stark contrast to their opponents, having won five and lost just one of their last seven games.
The Ammies will relish the opportunity to vanquish another League One side in the competition this year, following a cagey 1-0 win over Port Vale in the third round.
Calum Hendry will be available again for Salford following his three match suspension, but Matthew Lund, Stevie Mallen and Liam Shephard remain out through injury.
Manager Neil Wood also said that both Conor McAleny and Richard Nartey will have late assessments and could be available for selection.
