Defender ready to face his former club
Ashley Eastham says he is ‘surprised’ with the start Saturday’s opponents Rochdale have made and that they should ‘not be underestimated’.
Eastham’s former club lie bottom of Sky Bet League One after a difficult start to the season, however, the 25 year-old believes they are much better than their current position and is wary of the challenge ahead.
“I’m surprised with the start they have made but we won't be underestimating them, they are a better side than their position suggests” said Eastham.
“I’m looking forward to it. Obviously I’m focused on ourselves, but it will be good to see some old faces after having three great years there.”
The former Blackpool man joined the Cod Army from Dale in the summer but has stated that all friendships will be put aside on Saturday at Crown Oil Arena.
“You just try and focus on your own game and chat with your friends after the game.
“The old cliché that the second you cross the white line you are friends with nobody. I just have to do my best for Fleetwood.
“I made some great friends and spent time with some really good coaches and under the manager Keith Hill. I left with a heavy heart in the summer so it will be good to go back.”
Fleetwood are coming into the game on the back of two home games, but Eastham isn’t expecting a change of style from Uwe Rosler’s side.
“I don’t think we have a fear whether we play at home or away. I think sometimes teams play differently away from home but I don’t think our game changes.
“I think we are very positive on the front foot and know when to soak it up a bit when we’re under a bit of pressure but at Southend and Bolton we had two good performances and we’ll look to do the same again at Rochdale.”
“I think the manager has had a really positive impact on the squad.
“I think we are a real attacking force going forward and look decent and solid enough as a team. I think if we keep working on the individual things in training, I think this will be a really positive season.”
Be a part of the travelling Cod Army and support Uwe Rosler’s side on Saturday against Rochdale. Ticket and travel information is here: http://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/article/2016-17/fleetwood-town-rochdale-3293021.aspx