Chesterfield brings the curtain down on 2025 with a clash against Cambridge United this evening at the SMH Group Stadium.
A 2-0 over Notts County on Boxing Day moved the Spireites just one point off the automatic promotion places.
Meanwhile, Cambridge are three points behind the Blues and the League Two play-off spots.
In the Spotlight
Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu joined Neil Harris’ side in the summer after spending 11 years with Luton Town.
He won promotions with the Hatters from the National League all the way to the Premier League.
Since arriving in Cambridgeshire, the midfielder has scored three goals in 30 appearances in all competitions.
The gaffer’s record
Paul Cook has encountered Cambridge United seven times in his close to 20-year managerial career.
He has a positive record against the U’s with four wins, two draws and just one defeat, which he suffered whilst at Southport.
Three weeks ago, the two sides drew 1-1 at the Cledara Abbey Stadium after Kyle McFadzean’s stoppage-time strike.
Man in the middle
Taking charge of the midweek fixture is Scott Jackson, who has refereed the Spireites on nine occasions.
He has only encountered Maidenhead United, Wealdstone, Woking and Yeovil Town more times – ten times each.
His previous game at the SMH Group Stadium was the scintillating 3-3 draw with Bradford City back in April.
Throughout his career, he has handed out 697 yellow cards, 27 red cards and awarded 53 penalties in 208 games.
Gary Roberts’ thoughts
“They’re right in our tails, a team who don’t lose many games. They drew to MK Dons so, they don’t lose many games.They’ll come here and they’ll just make it hard.
“They’re a really tough team to play against. Quietly, we’re in a good place. We’re not shouting from the rooftop, but they’re in a good place.”
