Fleetwood Town's Head Coach Matt Lawlor has challenged his side to turn encouraging displays into positive results as the Cod Army prepare to begin the new campaign against Chesterfield in the Carabao Cup. Saturday's first-round tie at Highbury will mark the start of Lawlor's first full season as Head Coach, following a summer of considerable change to the playing squad.
What happened?
While pleased with the performances produced during his time in charge last term, Lawlor has made it clear that collecting more points, particularly on home soil, must now be the priority.
Why it matters for Fleetwood Town
"I want to make performances into points these days," Lawlor said. "There were some really encouraging performances last year, and then we didn’t get enough points. I want our home record to be much better, I want our away record to stay the same as it was last year, and I want the mindset to be different in terms of making performances into points."
What comes next?
Town enter the cup tie with a depleted group after several players picked up injuries during pre-season. Lawlor revealed that eight members of the squad are currently receiving treatment, although he hopes some will return in time for the opening Sky Bet League Two fixture, also against Chesterfield, a week later.
Key players and their roles
Lawlor was particularly encouraged by the pace and athleticism of new signing Josh Thomas, who he believes will be an asset in terms of his ability to stretch the game and relentlessly stretch it. Andy Cannon brings significant experience after winning three promotions with Wrexham, while Kane Thompson-Sommers has arrived after giving up the final year of his contract at MK Dons.
Next fixture
Fleetwood Town's next fixture is against Tranmere (away, 2027-02-27) (11th in the table).
