Guy considers freshening up Blues

Whittingham’s side travel to Dean Court for the Capital One Cup first-round clash looking to get their opening-day 4-1 defeat by Oxford out of their system.

That will be no easy feat against the Championship side who beat them 2-1 in a friendly two weeks ago.

Whittingham has to decide if he wants to shake up his starting 11 after Saturday or tweak his selection.

New signing Bondz N’Gala looks certain to start after signing a month-long deal.

Whittingham will also consider using Phil Smith in goal after he was narrowly edged out by John Sullivan on Saturday.

Romain Padovani may also come in for the suspended Johnny Ertl with players like Danny East, Tom Craddock and Ricky Holmes all pushing for playing time.

Whittingham said: ‘There were tough decisions on Saturday.

‘We thought about and came up with the decision John was the best man to start in goal.

‘They are both vying for the number one spot. John came out on top slightly – just – in pre-season.

‘Phil knows that and Phil knows he will have an opportunity. There is plenty to play for – plenty to play for all over the pitch.

‘There were some unhappy people in that dressing room on Saturday – not just because we lost but because they weren’t starting.

‘They have the bit between the teeth because they want to be in that starting 11.

‘What’s important to realise is we are a squad and there will be plenty of opportunities.

‘We’ve got Bondz for a month and we’re pleased to have him here.

‘It’s a chance to see how he does but we’re hopeful he’ll form a good part of the squad and can be here longer.’

Whittingham is pleased there is a quick turnaround for his team after Saturday.

He said: ‘We’re looking forward to the Bournemouth game – and getting Oxford out of our system – and then Accrington.

‘I think there were a few positives from Saturday. We didn’t win but it’s not doom and gloom. You want games thick and fast when you haven’t won.’