PHIL Parkinson is plotting big changes for tonight’s clash with Bristol Rovers in an effort to wash away the disappointment of Saturday’s dismal display at Bramall Lane.

Reece Wabara could be handed a debut after undergoing extra training sessions on Sunday alongside Chris Long, Andy Taylor and captain Jay Spearing, who returns from suspension.

Parkinson called his players and staff in for a meeting on Monday to try and highlight some of the problems which have emerged in the last couple of weeks.

But the manager feels the return of key personnel will make all the difference and is pinning his hopes on a refreshed side taking to the pitch tonight.

“It’s one defeat, one that gave us a lot of frustration because we weren’t at our best over 90 minutes, but it is only one defeat,” he told The Bolton News. “Football gives you a fresh start.

“We had things go against us in the build up to the game but we should have given Sheffield United a better game. We were looking forward to it, our fans were looking forward to it, and we came away with nothing.

“We have sat the staff and the players down for a chat and we know we have got to improve on that.

“When you lose, Saturday night and Sunday can feel like a long time. My wife prays we win every week because I’m that miserable.

“If we weren’t like that I don’t think we should be in the game. Losing should hurt but we just have to make sure the feeling doesn’t come around too often.”

Gary Madine is still a doubt for tonight with the illness which saw him withdrawn from the squad just 90 minutes before kick-off on Saturday.

“Ben (Alnwick) had the virus and Gaz picked it up,” Parkinson said. “He wasn’t well Friday night, we gave him medication, then again on Saturday morning, but when we got to the ground we didn’t feel he was able to play. It is a shame because Sheffield United feared Gary.

“Until I get the doctor’s report I don’t know how long he’ll be out.”