Richard Stearman and David Brooks have both been in front of the media as we head into Friday’s tie at Bramall Lane against Bristol City.
Following defeat to Millwall in our last encounter, Stearman, as he spoke to the Official Site, was of the belief that the criticism received was justified following the performance, but he backed the side to get back to their best in front of the television cameras.
‘We didn’t help ourselves in the way we performed at Millwall. The Gaffer made his feelings known publicly and we were also bitterly disappointed in the dressing room too. As professionals we know when we’ve not performed to the high standards we’ve set previously, the manager made that point and it was certainly justified. I really value the manager’s honesty, you know where you stand, he tells you exactly as it is and come Friday we’ll be ready to rectify the situation.’
Having returned to the squad in the last game following his hamstring problem from the Cardiff game back in August, he said of his spell on the sidelines.
‘It’s been a massively frustrating season for me personally. I’ve not had a muscle injury before and it forced me to miss a substantial amount of time. But on the flip side, the lads have picked up a tremendous tally of points in my absence and I’m hoping now that I will be able to contribute more.’
As for youngster Brooks, the 20 year old Welshman’s focus was on gaining more starts this season having begun the Millwall game and repaid Wilder with another goal but it was very much a case of mixed feelings for him given we lost the encounter.
‘Personally I was delighted to get a start and although I didn’t think I performed that well I was obviously pleased to get another goal. It was a cross-shot to be honest, but I was happy enough to see it go into the top corner, but at the end of the day it didn’t count for much.’
He added.
‘My aim is to get into the team consistently, but I will always work hard and respect the Gaffer’s decision. I’ll just focus on making sure I’m ready to make the most of opportunities when they come my way and if I’m at my best, the starts will come.’
