Cox and Dorrans on stand-by to fight for Morrison role
Nov 3 2010 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail
ROBERTO Di Matteo has admitted that he apologised to Simon Cox after withdrawing him against Blackpool – and revealed that both he and Graham Dorrans were vying for a midfield spot in James Morrison’s absence.
Morrison is expected to miss Sunday’s game against Manchester City, with Cox or Dorrans expected to deputise.
Cox got the nod for Monday’s game against Blackpool but was forced off after just 11 minutes after Di Matteo reshuffled his side following Pablo Ibanez’s dismissal.
Dorrans came on as a second substitute after Gonzalo Jara was sent off and went onto to produce an excellent performance.
Di Matteo admitted that both players would be considered on their current form, effectively challenging Dorrans to reproduce his displays of Monday and last season.
“I apologised to Coxy but I had no option,” said the Italian.
“I had take one off and put another defensive midfielder on.
“It’s a shame because he’s in good form. Coxy is playing well and he did well at Leicester, scoring two goals.
“Dozza hasn’t hit form yet so that was the decison.
“We are waiting for Dozza to show what he did last season. As soon as he does he’ll be in the side.”
Di Matteo has called on his side to maintain the kind of spirit and battling qualities which shaped their impressive display at Blackpool, despite the loss of two key players.
