Coventry City boss Mark Robins has revealed that the squad has been hit with an illness ahead of this weekend's clash against Stoke City, who are unbeaten in four league outings.

The Sky Blues are on a dismal run of form and are currently sitting 20th in the Championship after 15 games, four points above the relegation zone. The side's last victory came at home to Blackburn Rovers at the beginning of October.

Since the win over the Riversiders at the Ricoh Arena five weeks ago, Coventry have picked up one point from a possible 15 and are on a four-game losing streak. Meanwhile, Saturday's opponents have earned 10 points from the last 12 up for grabs.

The hosts are the underdogs heading into this clash but head coach Robins has provided an update on the squad, confirming that an illness has hit the camp.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the former Manchester United player said [quotes via Stoke-on-Trent Live]:

"If you've got illness in the camp people can't perform at the maximum and that has an impact. We've had people off and a fair bit of illness throughout the camp and this time of year is never great."

Robins has also stated that Coventry City almost have a clean bill of health, with Fabio Tavares and Kasey Palmer close to a return:

"There are some who are showing good signs of starting to come back," he said. "We're now just Fabio Tavares (Achilles) and Kasey Palmer (adductor) away from having a fully fit squad. Fabio's getting there. He's on the grass and will join in fully after this international break.

"And hopefully Kasey will be the same."

Writer's View

This isn't great news for Coventry City supporters who will be hoping their side can end the turgid run of form they're currently on. If players are playing with an illness, it means they may not be able to perform at a very high level.

A win for the Sky Blues against Stoke will be tough but is becoming a necessity after Rotherham United have picked up some points over the past seven days.