Burton are waiting on the fitness of defender Ryan Sweeney ahead of their trip to Wanderers on New Year’s Day.

Sweeney was forced off with a dead leg early in the second half of the 1-0 win against Shrewsbury on Friday night.

Beryly Lubala got the decisive goal as the Brewers secured back-to-back wins under caretaker boss Gary Mills, who took charge following Dino Maamria’s sacking.

Midfielder Joe Powell is also a doubt for the trip to the Toughsheet Community Stadium due to a foot issue.

“Ryan stiffened up at half-time. He’s icing it now and it will be touch and go for Monday,” Mills told the club's official website.

“It was touch and go with Joe and he played while only 85 per cent fit. It is a huge credit to him that he wanted to be out there, we were grateful he got through the game.” 

Burton have picked up seven out of a possible nine points over the Christmas period, and Mills has been encouraged by their performances of late.

“The application of the boys over the Christmas period has been outstanding and the will to defend the goal as a unit is something we are really proud of,” said the 42-year-old.

“The game played out as we thought and Shrewsbury are effective at what they do, so it is a huge credit to our players that they got the three points.

“The early goal helped, and we were really pleased for Bez. The work rate and unselfishness he brings to the team is fantastic and he deserved that goal. He has led the line really well and sometimes it can be a thankless task up there.”

He added: “The lads put bodies on the line again and I didn’t see us conceding. The spirit and togetherness could not be questioned.”

Mills hopes his side can build on their recent upturn in form but knows it won’t be easy against Ian Evatt’s side.

“We will be prepared and organised,” he said. “They will get (Saturday) off and then will be in on Sunday to prepare a gameplan for a really tough side.”