SWINDON Town head coach Ben Garner says deciding to play Stevenage – rather than postponing due to international call ups – was down to his trust in the players still at the club.

The Town boss said he remains fully confident his side can go to Broadhall Way and take three points without Anthony Grant, Jonny Williams, and Kaine Kesler-Hayden, who are all away on international duty.

Garner said the trio of missing players simply gives others the opportunity to stake their claim for a starting spot once Grant, Williams, and Kesler-Hayden return.

“We gave [postponing the games] some thought, but we decided against it,” Garner said.

“I think we’ve got enough quality here, and I have full trust and belief in the players that are here this week that we can go and perform and get a victory at Stevenage.

“The focus has been on the players in the building, we’ve wished the lads who have gone away the very best – and we’re obviously very proud of them representing their countries – but we’re also very focused on the job in hand here to make sure we can keep up the good run that we’re on.”

Town take on a Stevenage team that is winless in its last three games in all competitions, but one that Garner believes still possesses many dangerous qualities.

Alex Revell’s men could field several former Swindon players too, including Scott Cuthbert, Brad Barry, Jake Reeves, and Luke Norris.

Previewing Saturday’s League Two contest, Garner said of Stevenage: “They finished last season really well and they started this season pretty well too.

“They haven’t won their last few, but they’ve got a good squad in place. I went to watch them against Wycombe in the League Cup last week, and they were very unlucky not to win that game.

“They’re a good side who play a specific attacking shape that causes teams problems. We’re going to have to play very well to go there and win.”