Stevenage FC

Manager Gary Smith spoke to Boro Player this week about the importance for his team to bounce back from the defeat to Preston and put in a good display against title favourites Sheffield United.

Gary spoke about the disappointment last weekend at the Lamex however he is trying to focus on the positives of the season so far.

“It is always disappointing to get beaten at home, particularly disappointing considering Preston are one of our competitors and rivals for that top six challenge. Nevertheless there is hell of a lot to be grateful for and very positive about and I don’t think there is anywhere better to get a result and get back on track than Sheffield United.”

He continued: “There is an awful lot going on still with our team, there is plenty that I have said about the development of the group and how we are piecing our season together and at this point it has been a good opportunity for me to evaluate where we are at and what needs to improve and what we need in our structural side of our game to progress.”

After the Blades on Saturday, Smith’s men travel to Bournemouth on Tuesday and then face top of the table Tranmere at the Lamex which will be a tough test for his side.

“We have got three very tough games and at the end of this week it will give us a very good view of where we are going to be and what we are going to be challenging for the foreseeable future and I do honestly believe that whoever finishes second to Sheffield united will go up automatically as well.”

Some Boro players will have bad memories from Bramall lane after last season’s 1-0 loss in the semi-finals of the play-offs however Smith does not believe this will affect his players.

“I don’t think the memories of last year’s game at Bramall Lane will have an effect on the players as there have been many changes here and there.

“Danny Wilson has been on a fantastic run with that side they are a fantastic group, they know how to get results and have a lot of experience and that is reflected in the fact that last week was their first defeat against MK Dons so they will be looking to get back on track.”

To see the full interview log into your Boro Player account now!