Buchanan: Cobblers' '˜unbelievable' success down to hard work and unity

PARTY TIME: Ricky Holmes gets into the swing of things as Cobblers celebrate their promotion (pictures by Sharon Lucey)

The 29-year-old full-back also won promotion with Preston North End last year but insists that success doesn’t come close to the feeling of clinching promotion with Northampton.

Having signed in the summer, Buchanan, who’s assumed the role of captain in the absence of club skipper Marc Richards, has played more minutes than any other outfield player this season.

Asked if this has been his most memorable season as a professional, Buchanan replied: “No doubt about it, with the run we’ve been on and the 10 wins on the trot, we’re top of the league and we’re the first team to be promoted in the country and now hopefully we’ll be the first team to win the league.

“It’s been an unbelievable season and we’re absolutely over the moon.

“This experience has been far better than the Preston one, there’s no doubt about that.

“I’ve played every game so far and I’ve played a big part in it and it feels fantastic.

“I hope we can finish it off now and get a winner’s medal around our necks.”

There have been many factors behind Northampton’s incredible success this season but above all, the unity and team spirit has shone through, especially in the difficult times pre-Christmas.

“There is a secret and the secret is hard work and being together,” added Buchanan.

“We work hard every day in training and we socialise together off the pitch and we all do our jobs as good as we can.

“Every time we walk over that line, whoever’s had a Cobblers shirt on, has done their job for the team.

“This group of players are together on and off the pitch and it shows out there when we’re in front or when we’re behind - we stick together and we get the job done.”

Buchanan also had high praise for manager Chris Wilder and his assistant Alan Knill, adding: “I’m sure we’ll celebrate right and the manager deserves for what he’s done for this football club since he walked through the door.

“He’s different class and him and Alan Knill were one of the reasons I came here and it’s a proud moment for myself.

“As a player you saviour these moments because it’s an unbelievable feeling.

“We’ve been on an unbelievable run and that’s credit to the team and the staff and everyone in the squad.”