MARK Wotte is pleased his squad have no midweek game to contend with ahead of Saturday’s trip to Blackpool.

The Saints head coach has seen his usual training routine interrupted by Championship matches the last two Tuesdays.

Saints have not had a full week of rest between games since they faced Preston and Cardiff at home last month.

That intense schedule has meant a lot of time is spent recuperating, with a quick turnaround between matches.

Wotte said it is a boost to have a clear week, as he gets his side ready for the vital away game at Blackpool.

“It’s very important, we are still with four or five players who are not used to this intense schedule and intense programme,” he said.

“It’s another discipline, it’s another rhythm to play so many games.”

Saints could also be helped by a two-week break after their trip to Bloomfield Road.

With an international weekend scheduled at the end of the month, Saints will not play again until they host Charlton on April 4.

Wotte has fielded a very settled side over the last six games.

Just 12 different players have started those matches, which have yielded 11 points for Saints.

The Dutchman said playing so many games in such a short space of time might have had an effect on some of the younger members of his squad.

“Four or five players don’t have this experience and you see that they’re getting a little bit rough at the end,” he said.

“Now it’s time to pick up everybody, to create a good team spirit.”

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