MANAGER Russell Martin admitted his relief when Che Adams left the field fit on international duty this week ahead of a crucial clash against Leicester City.
The 27 year old should be ready to face his hometown club as both sides look to bounce back from their first defeats of the Championship campaign before the break.
Scotland international Adams has six goals in 24 caps and could not add to those despite playing 67 and 59 minutes respectively in two appearances this past week.
Steve Clarke’s side are set to qualify for the European Championships with five wins from five but Scotland were defeated 3-1 by England at Hampden Park on Tuesday.
Speaking ahead of the visit of Leicester, Martin said: “I watched it with my uncle and my nan, who is not very well so she was sleeping in and out of it.
“My uncle was winding me up and cheering England on. Really, I’m easy. I just wanted Che to get off the pitch as quickly as possible and I was relieved when he did get off. He did great.
“England were outstanding on the night but Scotland have done brilliant under Steve Clarke and they’ll qualify for the European Championships I’m sure.
“The lads enjoy going away and I am just pleased that it’s just Jan Bednarek back with a problem and hopefully he will be ready for the game anyway.”
He added: “It can be difficult when you go away with your team and don’t play, it can be frustrating. Shea Charles played a lot and did brilliantly so he’s got a real spring in his step.
“Ryan Manning and Will Smallbone didn’t play so much but have got a real spring in their step because their frustrated – so it’s a good thing either way for us.
“Ryan Fraser is desperate to get back into that setup, which is great. He scored in training where he, Che and Stu (Armstrong) linked up and he told me to send the clip to Steve Clarke.
“The more international players you have, the more quality you have in the building. It’s a good thing – until they get injured, then you’re frustrated. But you can’t begrudge it.”
Despite Martin’s fitness worries, with his star assets flown miles away from the safety and constant monitoring at Staplewood, he insists it is better to break cleanly for the fortnight.
“I leave them to have a break and just say good luck, and that’s it really. (Matt) Gilly will check in, Rhys (Owen) and the medical department on the performance side of it,” he explained.
“I feel like they need a break from me at that point so it’s just a message! I’ll chat if someone needs but it’s often good to have 11 days away and refresh.
“Moussa (Djenepo) is probably the one I’ve had the most contact with and he’s not even here anymore. I had a great couple of voice messages from him.
“He’s a great guy and I loved the energy he brought to the group but he wanted to play football and I’m sure he’ll do great there.”
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