John Coleman is looking forward to the normality of League Two after cup adventures over recent weeks.
Tomorrow the Reds host League Two leaders Wycombe Wanderers in their first game since losing to Yeovil in an FA Cup second round replay and the manager is philosophical about the way the run ended.
“We were all hurting after Tuesday’s defeat,” he said. “The loss was hard to take but we can take a lot of comfort from the fact, in my eyes, we were better than a League One side over the two matches.
“I liken the FA Cup to a glamorous holiday. It’s great when you are on it, you enjoy it and it’s an escape from reality but then, on your return, it’s back to ordinary life and it’s almost forgotten. That’s where we are – our holiday has been cut short and we are now back to league life and it’s full concentration on that now.”
Coleman has been pleased with the way that the players have responded to Tuesday’s disappointment and believes they are raring to go again.
“You wouldn’t have thought we had lost in the way the players have been in training since Tuesday,” he explained. “I have often praised the character of the players and they have been buzzing, there is still a buzz about the place.
“They can’t wait for the game to put it right and there is no better way to bounce back than playing the top of league at home. Wycombe have a great away record, one of the best in the country, but I expect to beat them. I think that’s a sign of how far we as a club have come in that I, and the players, expect to beat the top of the league.”
Two former Stanley players are likely to be involved in the Wycombe team, with Joe Jacobson and Peter Murphy set to return to the club. For youth team product Murphy it will be a first return since leaving in the summer and the manager who brought him through isn’t surprised by the success he’s had at Adams Park.
“I have known Peter since he was a little kid and he is a smashing lad,” said Coleman. “He has done really well for Accrington and in his career and I wish him all the best, except tomorrow! Peter has always had an eye for goal, even when he was a child, so we know he is someone we will have to keep tabs on today.
“Joe is a fantastic player, I love him and I too wish him all the best – except in this game!”