Steven Connors, Fleetwood Town`s combative midfield player, could be forgiven for not dancing to celebrate completing his first year at the club since his move from Bradford Park Avenue in February 2009.
Following a settled period in which he has played some of his best football for Town, Connors is currently sidelined with a muscle problem behind the knee which is restricting movement.
“I’ve been working closely with the club’s physiotherapists, Danny Moore and Ian ‘SOS’ Liversedge, who have both been brilliant. I’ve been doing pretty well until training last Tuesday when it sort of went on me again, not as severe as before but a bit of a setback. Not too sure when I’ll be back – it depends on how it reacts.”
Connors has had plenty of opportunity to reflect on the season and his recent good form.
“Obviously I’ve been in and out of the team since moving to Fleetwood and that makes it hard to get some form. Up to the injury, however, I had been doing well in the games I played and showing a bit of what I can do.”
A highlight was his opening goal of the season in the New Year`s Day victory over Southport. Immediately after scoring Town’s first with his back post header, Connors ran to celebrate with the club’s Sports Psychologist Steve Pope.
“Popey’s been brilliant with me, and with all the lads, but has really helped me when I’ve been short of confidence. I took a bit of stick from the fans and obviously it gets on your mind. Steve’s been with me all the time and helped me to put negative thoughts to the back of my mind. In the end you can only do it for yourself but Steve gives you ways of working on your focus and determination. He’s been absolutely brilliant behind the scenes.”
Connors has matured a great deal of late under the wing of manager Micky Mellon. Rash on arrival, he collected several red cards but is now calmer and building a more positive attitude. He is in a good place to learn his trade but understands that when he does return to action he will need to work hard to stay in the team. He is quick to acknowledge the exciting developments at the club.
“The squad’s getting bigger and I’ve got to do it for myself in order to get regular chances. With Anthony Barry signing recently, it’s getting better and better. Having a large squad can only benefit the club. Others, such as Southport, have smaller numbers and this may count against them over the remainder of the season.”
Turning to the run-in, Connors was not fazed by the prospect of playing two thirds of the matches away from Highbury. “I don’t mind away games. It’s good to be at home in front of your own crowd and on a pitch you know but with the squad that we have our lads can perform anywhere. I’m looking forward to it to be honest.”
Despite his recent setback, Connors remains one of the most popular members of Town’s squad, with his cheery humour and ability to put smiles on faces. He always finds time for the young mascots on match days and is happy to support the club in other ways, kindly agreeing to present medals and certificates at a Fleetwood primary schools festival at Fleetwood Sports College on 11th March.
All at the club will hope that as Connors` second year begins, he will soon be free from injury and back showing the fans that he is a player to watch for the future.
