Defender delighted on return
Dean Howell Write-Up
Fleetwood Town full-back Dean Howell has said he was delighted to be back on the playing field after Town's 4-1 demolition of Torquay United. Howell, 32, said whilst the victory was the side's main concern, it was particularly pleasing for him to be back in the starting eleven. “First and foremost it was a great victory for the boys. On a personal note, it was really nice to be back out there playing. I've worked hard in training, chomping at the bit to get a start and it has been frustrating for me. However I knew that if I bided my time and continued to work hard that I would eventually get my opportunity.”
The ex Crawley defender has also vowed to do his utmost to retain a starting position for future fixtures. “Every player needs to be consistent and anything less just won't do. We have a really good squad here now and the standards are really high so every player needs to be giving it their all. The Manager demands 100% every day and there is really no room for complacency.” Howell continued: “There is a great level of competition for a place in the starting eleven which is healthy and it also brings the best out of all of the lads.”
Having joined the club back in 2012, Howell has expressed his delight at the transformation the club has made and continues to make. “It really is awesome. The Manager has brought in some great players this season, some being high quality non-league players.” The left-back went on to praise new signing Antoni Sarcevic following his brace against the Gulls on Saturday.”Sarcevic is just one of those brilliant players as we saw in the win on Saturday. He's powerful and he has added another dimension to the team.”
Whilst Dean Howell admits there is pressure to succeed with the 'favourites' label on the club this season, he admits to feeling upbeat over the Cod Army's promotion chances. “Personally, I have the philosophy of taking each game as it comes and just aim to get the three points. I don't pay much attention to any other side or result in the league and instead just focus on Fleetwood Town. It is however definitely positive in terms of our performances this season. We have a good mixture of youth, experience, energy, discipline and we also have a fantastic team spirit which are all ingredients to make a great team.”