“We are going into it as positively as we can”

Ahead of the Spireites’ National League fixture at home to Boreham Wood, manager James Rowe spoke about what they are expecting for Luke Garrard’s side.

Speaking to the media, he said: “The clean sheets they’ve got and [the amount of] goals conceded is impressive. They’ve got a similar foundation to us and that’s why both boxes will count.

“They’re an organised team. They simplify their work in possession and have been effective. They have many numbers behind the ball, so it is going to take different ways to overcome that.

“We know the situation we are in. It will take an almighty effort against an in-form, organised side – something you would expect from a Luke Garrard side.

“We are going into it as positively as we can, and I’ve got every faith in whoever wears the shirt tomorrow will perform.”

Kabongo Tshimanga faces his former club with ex-Spireites Will Evans and Scott Boden in the opposition line-up.

Rowe is relishing the occasion, saying: “[Kabongo’s] looking forward to it and I’m sure their players will be too. It’s a spicy fixture in terms of [former players].

“It’s only good things though because the players on the pitch have had good tenures at their previous clubs. It adds to the drama of the game.”

Chesterfield return home after four fixtures on the road and Rowe is thankful for the support the team has received in previous weeks and is hoping for more of the same.

“I feel like we’ve been on the road for a long time over the past six weeks,” he said. “The support has been fantastic, and they have travelled in numbers. You can always hear them, and they get us over the line.

“Now we are back on our own turf. We are all looking forward to putting on a showcase. I’m really excited and we want to play in our own way.”

Akwasi Asante continues on his road to recovery and Rowe provided a positive update on the striker.

“Akwasi is with the surgeon today for sign-off from him – that’s the next step for him. 

“He’s been back in non-contact work; kicking the ball, sprinting and a little change of direction,” the gaffer said.

“He gets the sign-off today and then he has to go to St George’s Park in about three weeks time. If he gets a tick in there, then he can come back into full training.

“We’ve got to patient with Akwasi. He’s done everything right and I’m sure when we integrate him on the pitch, it will be the right time.”