Spireites striker Will Grigg has given his thoughts on various topics including how his summer is going, his personal goals for the next campaign, the new lads and much more…
How’s your summer been so far?
I guess it’s been a strange summer for me really. I haven’t had any time to rest. It’s all been about putting my hamstring injury first and spending every day trying to get that right ahead of next season. I’m determined to make sure it’s back to its best for the start of pre-season so I’m working hard to ensure that happens. It’s been nice to spend some time with the family though, for sure. It’s always good to have a break, but there’s no doubt that after a couple of weeks you’re ready and looking to that start date again, wanting to get back at it. As a footballer, those first couple of weeks are always a bliss, but I’m for sure looking forward to getting back now and looking forward to the season beginning.
Reflecting on last season, has it really sunk in yet?
Yes, I think it finally has to be honest. Stepping away from it for a bit allows you to really think back to all the memories; we had some incredible times. Throughout the season I found it really hard to appreciate where we were or what we were doing as I was so focused on the next game and I didn’t really look at the table that often or think about where we were, I just wanted to win the next game. Looking back now though, it was a fantastic season, one I’ll never forget. We created so many amazing memories together. The fans, players, everyone was just together; it was absolutely fantastic. It was a really special season for me personally and for everyone involved. I’m proud to be part of the team that got this club back to the EFL.
How much are you looking forward to next season?
I can’t wait. It’s no doubt going to be a big challenge as there are some massive teams in the league next year and it’s going to be tough but we’re also a big team. To finally have this club back in the EFL is massive, it’s going to be great to see the club back. The hard work off the field has already started and we’re buzzing for it. I think we have to attack the season head first, putting what happened last season to one side now. It was fantastic, but it’s all about going again now and focusing on the task ahead. We’ll see what happens, but I for sure am looking forward to getting going and playing in some big fixtures.
More than 5,000 season tickets have been sold – what are your thoughts on this?
Incredible, absolutely incredible. To have that number is fantastic. The support since I came to the club has been brilliant and is only getting better. It completely shocked me how big the support is but it’s been incredible. I’ve played for some big clubs over my career but since coming here the support has been incredible, whether we win, lose or draw, so I can’t thank the fans enough for that. There will be some good times and some tough times next year and we will certainly need the fans to stick with us through them all. Last year at times it felt like the supporters were sucking the ball into the net and we’ll need that again this season coming. Whatever happens, I will – and I know the lads will – give 100% on and off the pitch for this club and the supporters deserve that.
What are your personal goals for next season?
I think personally I just want to score as many goals as possible. I would target 20 as a number but personally I try to get to ten as quickly as possible and then go from there. More the merrier, really, I just want to score as many goals for this club as possible. To be honest, as long as I’m helping the team in some way, then I’m happy, I want to help the team on and off the pitch. I think I can use my experience to help the lads too, so in whatever way I’m helping, I’m happy. I’m, just excited to get going now. I love playing football and scoring goals and I love doing it for this club.
Are you excited at the prospect of meeting the new lads?
I’m really excited to meet the new lads. It’s always good in pre-season to get to know each other and meet all the new boys whilst catching up with the ones who were here last season. I think team spirit is important so this is a great time to create that as it makes a huge difference on the pitch. Our character throughout the season was incredible and I think that was mainly built up in pre-season and on our trip to Portugal. You only create that culture with good people around the place and I know the gaffer makes sure he signs good people and not just good footballers, so I have no doubt the new lads will be top lads too. I have no doubt that the new lads will be great and I’m looking forward to meeting them.
