Stags’ next two road games will be “as tough as any this season,” according to manager Nigel Clough, as his team looks to hold onto the top spot in Sky Bet League Two.
Tomorrow, the amber and blue will travel to Tranmere, who have gained momentum since hiring Nigel Adkins. On Saturday, they will travel to Bradford City, who may mount a surprise play-off push.
In addition, Nigel stated during a press conference at One Call Stadium today, in response to a question regarding whether he has established a point total for the next ten games: “The next two away games will be as tough as we’ve had all season.” Just those two games are on our minds: can we maintain our lead after them?
“Tranmere’s going to want to end the season strong, in my opinion. They have experienced a significant upturn in their fortunes since Nigel Adkins took coach, and they emerged from the relegation struggle rather swiftly.
They’ll probably be anticipating and preparing for the upcoming season. The idea that there is nothing to play for is untrue; everyone has something to aim for. There won’t be a game that we can say “that’ll be comfortable” regardless of the circumstances because you want to end the season on a positive note.
“Being in the top spot in the league means that you’re vulnerable to attacks, and clubs stand to gain a small advantage if they can defeat the top teams.”
In another place, the manager made his first remarks since midfielder Louis Reed signed a contract extension that would last until the summer of 2025.
“He was seriously hurt at Bradford very quickly after we brought him in late January. If he had been healthy that season, we are positive that we would have advanced to the playoffs. We were deprived of a point, and his contribution would have been crucial. The impact he has had this season is evident. He has been the most reliable player of all time, and regardless of the league we play in, we believe he will once again be a key contributor.
More good news: last week, Elliott Hewitt, a defender, participated in his first competitive game, playing 45 minutes in a reserve match against Huddersfield Town.
The manager remarked, “[He also had] No reaction, which is absolutely brilliant news.”
“It was the best news we’ve had for some time. We’ve seen him in training and he’s back in full contact now but to see him in a game at the RH Academy was absolutely brilliant. We have another (reserve game) next week so hopefully he’ll play sixty minutes in that and hopefully be back in contention for the squad.”
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