David Wheeler says the Exeter City players will use the disappointment of last season’s play-off final defeat as motivation going into the new season.
The Grecians came so close to promotion last season before missing out to Blackpool in a 2-1 defeat at Wembley Stadium.
However, having been bottom of the table in November, City had a brilliant last nine months, and David says they will be taking the positives from that going into the new season.
“I think if you would ask anyone, you would sooner lose at Wembley than finish in mid-table,” he said. “So getting to the play-off final, even though we lost, is still a positive.
“We had such a terrible start to the season – the first half basically – and we still came that close to promotion. I think we would have some terrible misfortune to be that unlucky in the first half of the season again, or any part of the campaign.
“So as long as we are consistent and we play to near to our ability then we have got plenty in the squad to get promoted.”
David also urged the fans to continue with their excellent support at home – as with two sides of the ground out of use to spectators – they need the home crowd more than ever.
“It is as important as ever,” he said. “I think they (the supporters) had a taste last season of how good we can be and what a good squad we have.
“And, with their support, it gave us that extra gear at home. I think if they can whip up a positive atmosphere and push us over the line then it could make so much difference at home.
“We got the record away wins for the club last season. So our away form is good and if the fans can generate a strong atmosphere at home, which we can expect and other teams can expect, I think we will be a force this season.”
David Wheeler is the feature interview in Saturday’s matchday programme. Pick up a copy of The Grecian at Saturday’s game to get his thoughts on pre-season and the aims for the new campaign.