Ronnie Russell's Robins have to face three meetings in as many days

Swindon Robins manager Ronnie Russell has questioned the professionalism of his rider Thomas H Jonasson on the eve of a tough trip to Poole Pirates.

The 21-year-old Swede was late turning up for the last week's meeting against Peterborough - not for the first time this season.

"He missed his flight and that's the fourth time this season. It's not good enough," Russell told BBC Wiltshire.

"It's something we're dealing with and dealing with him about."

Russell insists that Jonasson's lateness, combined with his poor knowledge of the workings of his bikes, is affecting his performance - as best illustrated in the clash against Peterborough.

"Thomas is very, very poor at mechanical expertise on his bike and the panic came when he got here at five past seven and had two bikes that wouldn't start," said Russell.

"We were pushing them, doing everything to them. I even got Leigh Adams working on them.

"Thomas went out for heat one in the full knowledge that his bike would not complete four laps."

The Robins manager is determined that there will be no repeat of last week's events.

"This week when his mechanic arrives at about three o'clock I want those bikes started up," added Russell.

"We don't usually start warming up until about seven but I want to know they're working."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version