Back in training and raring to go
Reporter: Charlie MacDonald
Date published: 10 January 2014
The Latics star writes every week for Chron Sport
WE’RE at the halfway mark of the seaso — with no more distractions in cup competitions.
Latics can now be fully focused on the job in hand as Stevenage come to Boundary Park. Last Sunday was another great day for this club. Though we were beaten, the boys produced a decent performance against a top team and came away with heads held high.
On another day, maybe we could have forced a replay. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be. But the club has had a financial gain which is brilliant and the players, staff and supporters had an unforgettable experience at Anfield. All in all, there are plenty of positives to take.
We can now concentrate on our bread and butter by getting points on the board and climbing the division.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, if there is ever a time for the phrase ‘a six-pointer’ then this is it. Having not won a league match since my last appearance before injury away at Shrewsbury, to say three points are long overdue is an understatement.
Stevenage currently sit bottom of the table and we are only above the drop zone on goal difference. It is fair to say we are going into our biggest battle of the season so far.
Graham Westley’s teams are always difficult to play against: big, strong, physical lads who will fight for every inch.
But ultimately it’s about what we do. Everybody needs to be at their best so we can dictate the game and play our style of football at a high tempo.
I am now back in training after my spell on the sidelines and I can’t wait to be involved if selected - so I can finally help on the pitch rather then just being a voice in the changing room.
My rehabilitation has been a steady, progressive one that has been frustrating at times but necessary.
I am feeling very good now and looking forward to participating in the remaining fixtures and, more
importantly, winning football matches.
The squad is looking very healthy right now, with players coming back from injury, and new additions.
This means competition for places is fierce at the right time, as everybody needs to be on top of their game to get us back on the right track.
I hope all you fans get down to support us tomorrow, so we can give you something you haven’t had at Boundary Park for a little while — three points.