Devon Matthews, defender for Accrington Stanley, talks about the team's matchup with Crewe Alexandra in Sky Bet League Two.
How has the first EFL complete preseason gone?
"This preseason has been refreshing. Naturally, I started playing games as soon as I registered in January. We have faced some challenging teams this preseason, so it's been a nice challenge, and I have loved it. I have also been able to knuckle down to what the coach and Ged (Brannan) want."
The squad's core is from the previous season; is it a case of expanding on that?
"We were in a relegation battle at the close of the previous season, but our performances were good. We have better ideas and the same spine, so we need to improve on what we accomplished last year in the back end. It's beneficial to bring in new people since it generates fresh ideas. We all understand each other and what we need to do in the pitch, so it's easier for them to integrate in."
How difficult was it to get started right away in January of last season?
For me, it was a difficult period. I like going in and playing football, but I had mental health issues. We were fighting for relegation, and I had a lot of trouble sleeping, especially after the Tranmere game, where we were ahead 3-0 and it ended up being 3-3. It was a difficult period.
"Overcoming those circumstances has many benefits, and I'm able to handle things like that more effectively mentally going into this season. It was a nice learning curve for everyone, but I did take it home and it kept me up at night wondering what I could do better. You talk to the coach and the players who have been there before to see how they are handling it, but you also figure it out on your own because you will be there again. Saying "we are going to be alright" calms you out and helps you relax a little.
Does anyone in the locker room have faith that this season will be better?
"You witnessed that throughout the first two games and the preseason. I am aware that they struggled in the first ten games of the previous season. The preseason has gone well, and our tests have been good. We've had a strong start to the first two games, and I'm confident in the team's dressing room, as are Ged and the coach. We are eagerly anticipating it.
What are your thoughts on the first two games and this Saturday's trip to Crewe?
"Gillingham, we had a chance to win the game. I contributed to the own goal and had an opportunity to score. However, Gillingham is a strong squad and is predicted to finish in the top half, so a point is not a horrible outcome. I have never played at Crewe before tomorrow's game. Although it sounds corny, we are confident in the dressing room that we can win, and we are going into it determined to do so."
The outcome of the Oldham game was positive and demonstrated the squad's strength with nine changes.
"The guys have been taking advantage of their opportunities, and everyone knows that they are a good group. Everyone must step up their game to keep their shirt, and it keeps them all on their toes.
"There is good competition. Tuesday's victory gave them momentum going into the following match. Everyone is cheerful and the atmosphere in the dressing room is positive.
Are you able to assist the other players who have arrived from football outside of the league?
"It's a significant step up at times, but you are given a chance and it's the appropriate club to be at after coming from non-league. They're all great guys, so it's easy to be settled right away and a nice dressing room to enter. It's a positive advancement. I'll always provide my counsel, but it's wise to handle things on your own. Since it's a lengthy season with both good and terrible portions, people will suffer, therefore it's beneficial to talk to and support one another."
"I'm really enjoying it. I consider myself really fortunate to be able to do this for a living. Playing football every day is a blessing. Right now, I'm enjoying life.
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