Excerpts from the Chairman's Programme Notes...
"We are sitting in the top half of the table at the halfway stage, within a couple of points of the play-off spots, but Dino and the players want better than that. Yes, we are a work in progress and learning about our players as we play each game – but then so are most of the other teams in the league.
"There are not that many League Two sides where the Manager has had two or three years to get his team the way he wants it. Lincoln are one of those, so are Tranmere and Forest Green, but I can’t see many others.
"To get to that point requires a Manager and Chairman to be in-tandem as to what they want for the club. Is promotion the main driver, or developing players? To achieve both is ridiculously difficult.
"You either set your team up with experienced players that know how to win – if you have the budget to do that - or you put several talented youngsters in the side. We know from experience that if you have too many youngsters the results will be erratic.
"We also know from experience that too many older, experienced players does not give you the momentum and vitality you need to consistently win. So, it’s all about balance.
"The picture I’m painting is that it is hard to get it right. We must try different things until we get the blend that works. My definition of ‘works’ is playing fast, intense football, winning games and creating a ton of chances whilst stopping any going in the other end! Easier said than done, but you must have ambition.
"Enjoy the game and have a great Christmas!"
---
Read the Chairman's full programme notes in Saturday's Stevenage v Mansfield programme, available around the ground for just £3.
