Sutton United back on the play-off charge ahead of Chesterfield clash

By Matt Badcock
Ian Baird says Sutton United are feeling much better about themselves following last weekend’s comeback win over Gateshead – but the U’s know they face a tough test at Chesterfield tomorrow.
Baird has stepped up from his assistant role to take the managerial reins from boss Paul Doswell, who is taking a temporary break for personal reasons for the remainder of the season.
Baird’s first game is the lunchtime kick-off with the Spireites which is being shown live on BT Sport.
The U’s are four points outside the play-offs following an important 4-2 win against the Heed that re-ignited their charge – and Baird wants it to continue in Derbyshire.
“We haven’t been firing all season in the final third, but we’ve dug in, we’ve got a good core in that side and we’ve got a good dressing room,” Baird said.
“So the turnaround didn’t surprise me but it did because we were on a very low, low. It was a very pleasing result.
“We’ve always said if we get in the play-offs this season it will be our biggest achievement together. But we’ve got a big game on Saturday.
“I know (Chesterfield manager) John Sheridan very well – I played with him for five years at Leeds – and I know Glynn Snodin, his assistant.
“Shez is an extremely good manager, he’s turned Chesterfield around and we know it will be a difficult game because they’ve got good players there.”

Pick up Sunday’s NLP for more from Ian Baird on Doswell’s decision and Sutton’s run in