DC: “They see the potential that we see here.”

Danny Cowley spoke at some length regarding the end of season run-in at yesterday’s press conference, ahead of tonight’s match against Oldham Athletic.

Oldham Athletic: DC noted that the Oldham strike force has changed since the away fixture before Christmas. Under Paul Scholes*, Oldham are seeking to dominate with the ball utilising good technical players to provide a threat down the flanks and pace up front.

Successful Players as Managers: DC believes it to be a good thing that such notable players as Paul Scholes and Sol Campbell have the love of the game and desire to want to be managers after exemplary playing careers seeing it as commendable that they wish to learn their trade at L2 level; in the case of Scholes with his boyhood (supported) club. DC is looking forward to sharing a touchline with one of the best players of his generation.

Opponents Defensive Stance at SB: It is up to Imps to choose the right tactics and personnel to break teams down as it is the opponents prerogative to set up in a way they think will achieve their goals from the game. It is something DC is aware of – statistically, the ball was in play for 55.5 minutes per game at SB in the first half of the season, that has now dropped to 49 mins.

The Run In: Whilst historical statistics favour the Imps promotion push DC and everyone connected with the squad are leaving nothing to chance. DC is proud to have the game points average back up to two bearing in mind what a competitive league the division is. He recognises the value of having Bury doing so well as that will drive the players on like Tranmere did during the NL. DC will strive to ensure the players maintain their season-long mindset so that they continue to find their levels, intensity and technical execution. Two big plusses are that there is a universal learning culture from everyone connected to the effort, from players to management and support staff alike. Secondly, the club has made outstanding progress in terms of the support staff infrastructure compared to where ‘we’ were 12 months ago.

Investment: The recent Sportvest Capital LLP investment is outstanding and a credit to everyone connected with the club. It reflects well that people can see something special is being built at Lincoln City with relationships within the club and supporters. It comes on the back not only of success on the pitch but also a demonstrable business culture where monies earned from match related income and players sales have been sensibly re-invested. DC was keen to highlight the balance between the two.

Injuries: Jason Shackell injury not as bad as first thought but he won’t be rushed back. Lee Frecklington is coming along well and could be available for Mansfield.

Miscellaneous: The youngsters getting bench experience is excellent for their personal and professional experience. DC will not be recalling Ellis Chapman just to fulfil the homegrown player criterion. Ellis is really benefitting from his time at Chesterfield, enjoying his time there. ‘They’ are very happy with Ellis and are looking after him well.

DC (half) joked about the ball boy’s first-half performance against Yeovil, smiling as he explained they had received a half time dressing down to ensure the small margins of success were maintained. He was satisfied that their second-half performance was much better.

* to use an apostrophe or not, that was the question. After all, surely they are now Paul Scholes Oldham are they not?

Writer: hulloutpost

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