The Spireites travel to Greater Manchester this evening to face off against second-place Salford City, searching for a first win of 2026.
Paul Cook’s side will look to get back on track and get back into the play-off positions after a 2-1 defeat at Newport County last time out.
Karl Robinson’s Salford find themselves unbeaten in nine league games and second in the league, looking to cement their place in the automatic promotion positions.
In the Spotlight
Ryan Graydon has recently completed a January transfer to Salford from Fleetwood Town after scoring eight goals and assisting three for his former club this season.
The striker has seamlessly settled into his new surroundings, already, adding three goals and one assist to his already impressive record in just three appearances.
Salford’s striker partnership of Graydon and Daniel Udoh have a combined 31 goal contributions this season.
The gaffer’s record
Paul Cook is unbeaten in three clashes against tonight’s opponents, winning twice and drawing once.
All three games that Cook has taken charge of against Salford have come since the Spireites’ return to the EFL, the most notable being a 4-0 win at Peninsula Stadium last season.
The reverse fixture this season ended with all three points staying in North Derbyshire after a 2-0 win in October.
Man in the middle
Ollie Yates is the referee for tonight’s fixture, assisted by Jacob Lehane, Ryan Aldred and the fourth official, Matthew Jones.
Yates has issued 95 yellow cards and two red cards in 21 games this season, which is 4.62 cards per game.
The last Chesterfield game that Yates officiated was a 3-0 win against Bromley at the SMH Group Stadium last season.
Paul Cook’s thoughts
“Very tough game, very tough game. (They’re) on a fantastic run, an amazing run. Great credit to Karl, the staff and the players.
“They’re gaining momentum, they’re keeping clean sheets, they’re winning games and I’m sure they can’t wait for the next game.
“It’ll be a difficult night. Salford put the ball forward very quickly. They’ve got a direct style of play at the minute and they’re very good at it.”
