Stevenage’s improved form ‘a red flag’ for Cobblers, says boss Wilder

The Hertfordshire club have endured a difficult start to the season, and currently sit fifth bottom in Sky Bet League Two, having claimed just 14 points from their 14 games.

But five of those points have come in their current three-match unbeaten run, and in their past two games they have beaten high-flying Wycombe Wanderers, and then gone to title favourites Portsmouth and claimed a 1-1 draw.

“They have had a tough start, but the three results they’ve just had is definitely a red flag for us,” said Wilder.

“Just because we are near the top of the league, there are no gimmes for just turning up.

“So we will have to keep the hammer down like we have done, and to keep working extremely hard to get a result.

“If we don’t work extremely hard then we know that what’s in front of us can hurt us, and we don’t want to be hurt.

“Stevenage have had those three tough tests, a home game against Wycombe and two tough away games at Exeter and Portsmouth, and they are finding a bit of form.

“They will be looking to climb the table and they play decent football.

“As I have said before, I will never underestimate any team in this league. We have to make sure we are bang at it.”

The Cobblers are set to make at least one change to the team that started the 3-2 win over Carlisle United on Tuesday, with Zander Diamond likely to start in central defence as Ryan Cresswell is struggling with a groin strain.