The Whites boss believes that his side have performed above his expectations so far this season.
After an impressive start to the season, Lincoln United are currently sat in eighth place in the Pitching In Northern Premier League south east division.
Sam Wilkinson’s side have lost just two of their seven games in the league so far this season, while also being knocked out of the FA Trophy in a 2-1 defeat to Stamford.
Ruthless Attack
Speaking in August, the Whites boss said that he wanted his side to be more attacking this season.
So far, they have exceeded his expectations. United defeated Glossop North End 5-0 in their last game at Ashby Avenue, while they also defeated Sutton Coldfield Town 6-0 on October 10.
Speaking about the form of his players, the Whites boss said: “The lads have been pretty ruthless in-front of goal if you consider the age [of the players]; you expect more experienced players to take those opportunities.
“I think against Glossop we only created seven good opportunities but still put everything away, which is credit to the boys.
“But we have definitely been better than what I first thought, because I wasn’t convinced about the lads stepping up that they could do it consistently. I knew they had the ability to do it, but they’ve shown they have got that consistency. And they’ve got that ruthlessness, which every manager wants.”
Form of Matt Cotton
Attacking midfielder Matt Cotton has been the standout player for United this season. Cotton, who returned to the club over the summer, scored eight goals in six games during October, leading to praise from his manager.
“Cotts was always going to be our standout player in that position because he could probably get into every team in the league in my opinion – Lincoln United are very lucky to have him.
“He’s been outstanding and hopefully he can continue his form; I genuinely believe that he can be in the top five scorers in the league. He has set his targets to be the top scorer, which is brilliant.”
However, the United boss recognises that it has been an all-round team effort so far this season.
“There is a lot to it, it’s not just about Matt Cotton,” said Wilkinson.
“Robbie Smith and Callum Chapman have also been excellent in that attacking midfield role. Robbie has got a few goals and won a few penalties for us; Callum Chapman chips in, and in general, three attacking midfielders are going to be very creative.
“It is definitely a team thing – the two strikers work hard for Cotts to get that little bit of space, and if he gets it he will hurt any team.”
League Aspirations
Despite their excellent start to the season, the United boss is still sticking to his targets from the start of the season.
“The boards aspirations were to improve on last year as a club, which I think we have done already, although there is still a long way to go,” the Whites boss said.
“Our aspirations was to be in and around mid-table, and realistically that would be like Lincoln United winning the league if we are to finish where we are now.”
Lincoln United are next in action at home to Loughborough Dynamo on Saturday 7 November.