EFL pundit Jamie Mackie reckons fatigue has had a big impact on the Wanderers squad over the past few days.

Ian Evatt’s men were beaten at Portsmouth in midweek and were held to a goalless draw against Morecambe on Saturday.

The Whites’ best chances fell to Shola Shoretire and Josh Sheehan, but Connor Ripley made a couple of important stops.

Jensen Weir had a decent opportunity at the other end but was denied by James Trafford low to his right.

Former QPR and Plymouth forward Mackie believes Ian Evatt’s men have been affected both physically and mentally by their demanding schedule.

He reckons having a lighter schedule in the coming weeks will give the squad a boost as they aim to finish the season strongly.

Speaking as a pundit on the EFL highlights show, Mackie said: “They have had seven games in 22 days. They have got two games in the next 28 days, so it is a big contrast.

“I think the players need to recover and rest, mentally and physically, for the run-in to give themselves an opportunity for a (promotion) push.”

Despite failing to secure the victory, Wanderers remain fourth in the League One table after Derby and Barnsley also dropped points.

However, the gap to the automatic promotion spots is now up to eight points after Plymouth overcame Charlton at Home Park.

The Whites are back in action next weekend when they welcome third-place Ipswich to the University of Bolton Stadium.

The points were shared when the sides met at Portman Road on the opening day of the season, with Lee Evans cancelling out Aaron Morley’s opener from the penalty spot.

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