Manager prepared for hectic three day schedule
Fleetwood Town manager Graham Alexander admits his squad are in high spirits ahead of two important games inside three days, starting with Burton Albion this weekend at the Pirelli Stadium.
The Cod Army, who are yet to drop a point in 2014, will be looking to make it four wins out four in January and avenge their FA Cup second round defeat at the hands of the Brewers last month.
“The lads have been buoyant about their recent form and results. We are going into an important stage of the season with two big games in front of us.
“We have to take the game that is right in front of us at first which is Burton Albion on Saturday.
“We have played Burton Albion three times already this season so they know what we are about and vice-versa.
“It will be two good teams coming against each other this weekend but we want to keep our recent run of form going. It will be a tough match for both teams.”
Fully focused on the first job at hand, which is collected a positive result against a fellow promotion hopefuls Burton, Alexander believes recovery is key if Fleetwood are to reach their maximum in both games, with a tricky trip to Scunthorpe following on 48 hours later.
The manager continued: “We have to make sure the recovery levels are right in between the two games.
“The lads are all professional and realise what needs to be done. The rewards are there for everyone and we are looking forward to a busy next few days.
“We have competition for places all over the squad so it is important we keep that for the remainder of the season.
“It is going to take a squad effort if we are going to be successful and the lads who are currently not playing at the minute need to keep pushing the lads that are playing.
“They need to be ready to take the opportunity because if they are I will be willing to give them a chance. If they are not ready then they will not get in the team.
“That is the challenge for everyone involved in the squad but they are all working hard and ready for this weekend’s game.
“It was a close call with Antoni Sarcevic last weekend but it was just a bit too early for him. We are going to keep a close eye on him for the remainder of the week. Hopefully we will have him back in soon and his inclusion will strengthen the squad again with Jeff missing.”