CHESTERFIELD boss John Sheridan knows all about what is needed to win a final at Wembley, having been a part of the Sheffield Wednesday side that beat Manchester United in the League Cup there over two decades ago.
The Owls were the underdogs that day, but triumphed courtesy of a Sheridan free kick and the former midfielder plans to use all of his experience to help give Chesterfield the edge when they take on Swindon in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final on Sunday.
Key to performing well, according to Sheridan, is to be relaxed and that has what he has told his players throughout this week.
“I want the players to be relaxed and go on and win the trophy,” he said.
“Ron Atkinson was our manager when Sheffield Wednesday won and that is what he instilled in us as players.
“It is a big thing playing at Wembley and I want us to go and enjoy the occasion.”
However, Sheridan is not so foolish to believe that just being relaxed will be enough against a Swindon side that head into the game in great form.
The Robins have lost just twice all year in the league and a 2-0 win over League Two title rivals Torquay on Tuesday has them brimming with confidence.
“I know it will be a tough game,” added Sheridan. “Swindon are playing with confidence, scoring goals and keeping clean sheets.
“They are the top of their league and we are at the wrong end of the table.
“But we are going there to win the trophy.
“I want our players to believe they can win the game, so it is important they go there relaxed.’’ Chief executive Chris Turner, who was also a part of the Sheffield Wednesday team that beat Manchester United, is confident that, armed with his and Sheridan’s knowledge, Chesterfield can cause a shock on Sunday.
“Ron Atkinson was the best manager I played under and John and I talked about how we get our players into the groove,” he said.
“We might surprise a lot of people. Hopefully, Swindon may be a bit over-confident.’’ Chesterfield have sold around 17,700 tickets for the game, while their players will head to the capital on Friday to visit Wembley ahead of Sunday’s game.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel