McKenna Integrates Weather Forecast and Pitch Condition into Game Preparation Strategy
Kieran McKenna, the manager of the Blues, has emphasized the importance of integrating weather forecasts and pitch conditions into the team’s preparation strategy as they prepare to revisit Blackburn Rovers. This match, which had been abandoned in September due to severe weather, will take place on Tuesday, December 1, 2025. The Blues are looking to recover from a recent 2-1 defeat at Oxford United in what are expected to be soggy conditions once again.
Background of the Abandoned Match
The original fixture was halted at the 80-minute mark when the home team was leading 1-0. The match was interrupted after Jacob Greaves received a red card, leaving the Blues with ten men. Despite Rovers’ requests for the match to be either completed or the result to stand, the EFL mandated a complete replay due to the adverse conditions.
Weather Conditions Ahead of the Match
As the team prepares, East Lancashire is under a yellow weather warning indicating 20-40 mm of rain and wind gusts reaching 22 mph. The weather will play a critical role in how the match unfolds.
McKenna’s Game Preparation Insights
- McKenna has indicated that understanding weather conditions is essential for effective game preparation.
- The team will monitor pitch conditions to make necessary adjustments to their playing strategy.
- Previous experiences with the pitch during the cancelled match will guide their approach.
Assessing Player Readiness and Squad Management
McKenna plans to assess the squad’s condition over the weekend to ensure a fresh team for the upcoming match. The busy schedule includes seven games in just 22 days, making it crucial to manage player fatigue effectively.
Blackburn Rovers’ Current Form
Blackburn currently sits in 18th place in the Championship table, trailing the Blues by 10 points and seven positions. They have won only once in their last four matches. Their home form has been particularly weak, with just one win and seven losses in league games at Ewood Park this season.
Players to Watch
- Skipper Todd Cantwell is recovering from a knee injury and may return soon.
- Sondre Tronstad and other key players are sidelined due to injuries, impacting the team’s depth.
- Blues goalkeeper Christian Walton, who previously played for Blackburn, will return to face his old club.
Overall Team Strategy
McKenna has expressed confidence in utilizing all available resources to cope with the demands of the busy fixture list. He acknowledged the challenges but is optimistic about the team’s ability to adapt and succeed despite the conditions.
The upcoming encounter represents an opportunity for the Blues to demonstrate resilience and solidify their standing in the Championship while presenting a competitive challenge to Blackburn amidst tough conditions.
