Exeter City vs Salford City preview: How to watch, kick-off time, team news, predicted lineups and ones to watch

Exeter City will host Salford City this coming Saturday at 13:00 BST, as the Ammies prepare for Gary Bowyer's first game in charge.

Bowyer has had recent spells at the likes of Bradford City, Blackburn Rovers, Derby County under-23's and Blackpool, where he guided the Tangerines to promotion despite the rocky times with the owners.

His appointment was a surprise, with many frustrated that Richie Wellens hadn't been given more time. Salford had won just two in their previous nine, including a trophy lift at Wembley.

The home side will be looking to close the gap on the play-offs, but with three consecutive defeats and failing to beat strugglers Oldham Athletic on Tuesday, a confidence boost is needed for the Grecians.

Team news

Matt Taylor’s side may be the highest scorers in the league, but continue to be without long-term absentee Randall Williams.

Bowyer on the other hand has a few more absences in his roster, with Bruno Andrade and Darren Gibson missing.

Tom Clarke, Richie Towell and Paul Coutts will look for a return to the starting eleven after slight knocks.

Predicted lineups

Exeter City: Andresson; Caprice, Sweeney, Parkes, Hartridge, Sparkes, Atangana, Collins, Taylor, Bowman, Jay.

Salford City: Hladky; Hunter, Bernard, Clarke, Turnbull, Touray, Lowe, Threlkeld, Gotts, Thomas-Asante, Henderson.

Ones to watch

Matt Jay

One player who's had a phenomenal season in League Two, is homegrown forward Jay.

With an average rating of 7.11 this season, Jay has netted 15 goals and notched six assists, making him a key part of the way the Grecians play.

Ashley Hunter

Having adopted a new role in the Ammies side, Hunter has flourished in a wing-back role.

Hunter has an average rating of 7.08 thanks to his six assists and five goals, and will be keen to begin his tenure under Bowyer by impressing. With the talents of Ian Henderson up top, Hunter is forming a formidable partnership and will utilise him on Saturday.

Previous meeting

These two sides have only faced one another twice, but this will be Salford's first ever visit to St. James Park. Last time these two sides locked horns, Jay was a real thorn in the Ammies side having netted a brace. Goals from Henderson and Hunter kept the game level however, as Salford are made to wait for their first ever victory over Exeter.