Robson warns old club

Wimbledon's head coach Stewart Robson has warned his old club Coventry that they will have to return to the Premiership this season or face the prospect of selling their star players.

Robson spent three years at Highfield Road as a player but will attempt to plot Coventry's downfall tonight as they visit Selhurst Park.

Roland Nilsson has been handed the task of returning Coventry to Premiership status following the dismissal of Gordon Strachan.

Although Coventry remain unbeaten in the First Division since Nilsson - who is doubtful for tonight's clash with a calf strain took control - Robson is aiming to put a dent in that impressive record.

Robson said: "Since Gordon Strachan went they have had a resurgence. I think a lot of the worries have been taken off their shoulders.

"Nilsson has introduced new players who were not getting a chance under Strachan. They have revelled in the opportunity.

"When I was at the club they didn't spend too much money. It was very tight. But Strachan was given millions to spend, some would say wisely others would say unwisely, but in the end it got them relegated.

"I think a lot of their players will be on massive wages and unless they get straight back up they will have to get rid of a few."

Wimbledon will name the same squad which defeated Gillingham at the weekend. They are still without several key players though, including winger Gareth Ainsworth who is out until Christmas following an ankle operation.

Should Wimbledon win tonight it will be their first home League victory in midweek since 1997, when they beat Barnsley 4-1.

Meanwhile, Dons manager Terry Burton has warned that Northern Ireland international midfielder Michael Hughes could be the next player to quit the club.

Burton said: "He is Premiership quality and there is always a chance someone might come in for him."