Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton says this weekend’s clash with Wanderers could help shape their summer business.

The Whites head to the Memorial Stadium knowing they have already secured a play-off spot, although Ian Evatt’s men will be eager to stay above Derby and Peterborough.

Meanwhile, the Gas are comfortable in mid-table also have a game against Shrewsbury at New Meadow tonight.

While Barton still plans to pick a strong side for the final fixtures, he believes it is a chance for some players to stake their claim.

He told Bristol Live: “While we’re in the spot we’re in, if the lads don’t perform I think it’s only natural to give someone else a go and say, ‘go on then, you go in and do your job’.

“Chopping and changing during the season is not beneficial, but I need to have a good appraisal of these lads because some of them I’m going to have to release. Some of them I’m going to have to say, ‘you’re not getting a contract’.

“All of them - seniors as well - I need to be able to look them in the eye the Monday morning after the Bolton game and say, ‘unfortunately your future’s not here and these are the reasons why’.”

Barton hoped to have midfielder Josh Grant back available before the end of the season following a lengthy injury absence.

The former Chelsea prospect hasn’t featured since the opening weeks of the campaign after having knee surgery.

However, Grant suffered a small setback in training and Barton doesn't want to take any risks.

“Josh has just had a little tweak there in his groin,” the manager explained. “Josh needs a really good pre-season and then that’ll give him the springboard.

“I’m just disappointed for him because he looked really good out there in a short space and then felt his groin, which is a blow for him.

“But in the scheme of things, it’s not the worst thing that could happen. And it’s not the worst timing.”

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