Rovers, Wigan and Shrewsbury reporters discuss the League One promotion race

WIGAN ATHLETIC

Mood in the camp:

Super confident - as it has been all season. Now the FA Cup run has been consigned to the history books, his side have been able to focus all of their attention on their primary goal of achieving promotion.

Any possible advantages:

Wigan's destiny is in their own hands. If all three sides continue their points-per-game tally until the end of the season, it's Wigan who will finish top.

A fair few of the League One title-winning squad from two years ago have also remained at the club, meaning they also have the experience to get over the line.

They also have the best defensive record in the country, and a tried and trusted formula where every player knows their role inside out.

Any possible concerns:

The pitch at the DW Stadium has been showing signs of wear and tear, but the side has shown with wins on the road at Bradford, Walsall and Bury that they can roll their sleeves up and fight for points.

Key player:

Nick Powell. In a squad consisting of arguably the best goalkeeper, best defender, best midfielder and most 'on-fire' striker - Christian Walton, Dan Burn, Sam Morsy and Will Grigg - you'd have to be something to stand out from the crowd.

Nick Powell is that man. The ex-Manchester United man simply exudes star quality, from the way he meanders across the turf to how he can change a game with a flick of a switch.

He showed during the FA Cup run he belongs in Premier League company, and he'd be playing there now had he - not the club - rejected a £10million move to Brighton in January.

Who goes up:

I predicted Wigan and Blackburn - and I’m sticking with that. But then again, I also tipped Shrewsbury to finish in the bottom four, so what do I know!

Like most observers, I’ve been waiting all season for the Shrews to run out of steam. I can’t help feel the Checkatrade Trophy final appearance could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

BLACKBURN ROVERS

Mood in the camp

Very much a sense of determination to get the job done. The Rovers squad is a mix of players who have played at a higher level and want to be back there and some young and up and coming stars who have aspirations of moving their careers forward. The players and management are focussed on the job in hand. 

Any possible advantages

The January addition of Adam Armstrong means they have some real firepower at the top end, while the return from injury of Darragh Lenihan means things are more assured at the back.

They have an experienced squad, a strong team spirit, and are in the best form – losing just once in their last 28 matches.

Any possible concerns

Rovers had the best run-in in terms of space between matches prior to two postponements so they will now have to deal with a similarly condensed fixture list. Five of their last eight matches come on the road, although Rovers’ away has been strong.

Key player

Bradley Dack. His performances have been key. He has scored 16 times and laid on six assists and is the man who more often than not comes up with the goods when they need it most.

Who goes up

I think Rovers will have enough to get themselves over the line and although Wigan look well set now, I have a sneaky suspicion that the Shrewsbury story isn’t ready to end anytime soon.

SHREWSBURY TOWN

Mood in the camp

Relaxed and rightly so. Town have had nothing to lose all season and they are still scrapping it out where they have no right to be.

The squad has a phenomenal belief, instilled by manager Paul Hurst and assistant Chris Doig. that has been in place since the early months of the season.

Any possible advantages

Six of Town’s remaining nine league games are at Montgomery Waters Meadow. Their home record has been incredible. Another plus point will be the lack of expectancy on the players. That could become a factor for Wigan and Blackburn as the finishing line approaches.

Any possible concerns

Lady luck has shone on Town at times as far as injuries and suspensions go.

That’s run out in recent weeks and Town, with the smallest squad and of the promotion trio, may struggle to cope with the demands of a hectic final month - including next month’s Wembley trip.

Key player

Jon Nolan. Probably unfair on 13 or 14 regular starters to pick a key man but Nolan has stepped up to the plate in the last month or so. He has put in some displays to really show why Championship clubs are keen to secure his services.

Who goes up

Blackburn have looked the strongest and have come good post-Christmas with a superb run. I think Tony Mowbray’s side will edge top spot but I am backing Shrewsbury to crown their fairytale season with second position.