Caretaker Head Coach Paul Heckingbottom gave his thoughts to the press ahead of his side’s trip to Gillingham this weekend.
Heckingbottom admits it has been a very busy first week in charge with games coming quickly and he spoke about that transition.
“It’s been an enjoyable week because everything has gone well,” Heckingbottom explained. “We have crammed a lot in this week. From the fans, the players, the staff, the owner, everyone has been busy but luckily enough everyone has been positive.
“Sunday was a massive result for the town, the team, everyone. After the big result on Thursday and getting to Wembley we were conscious that we didn’t want a hangover from that and we had to keep the same standards.
“We want to keep the same mentality which is a winning one, and we managed to do that. The performance was pleasing. We did look a bit slow to start with but we got stronger as it went on and won comfortably in the end.”
With the Reds now five points off the play-off places and a JPT final at Wembley booked in, Heckingbottom explained how his side are viewing the upcoming fixtures, but firstly their sights are firmly set on Gillingham.
“The lads have two things to play for,” he said. “We’re chasing the trophy at Wembley which is massive and keeps everyone hungry.
“They have to keep their standards high to get in the team for Wembley, but looking beyond that we would love to still be in the hunt and chasing the final play-off spots. There’s a lot to play for, this is the reason the play-offs were brought in.
“We’ve got big challenges ahead but it’s what everyone wants. It’s come through everyone approaching every game trying to win it. We’ve told the players to keep Wembley out their minds and we’re working towards Gillingham.
“Gillingham are a good strong side, they’ve been up there from minute one. They’ve been scoring goals all season. They were up there when we beat them at Oakwell, they’ve always been chasing automatic. They’ll throw challenges at us.
“What will be, will be. We’re working towards everything we can.”
