'A revelation up front' - Woking expert provides lowdown on Chesterfield's next opponents

We spoke to journalist Rob Hemingway, who covers Woking for the Woking News & Mail, to get the lowdown on the Blues’ next opponents...

What's been the story of Woking's summer?

Upheaval and uncertainty - like many National League clubs. Already hindered by having one of the lowest budgets in the league, and a part-time set-up. Now things are even harder – particularly having lost Moussa Diarra and Jake Hyde - but boss Alan Dowson is a fighter and is building another team ‘from scratch’.

What can Woking achieve this season?

Skipper Josh Casey told me they are targeting anything better than 10th, which is where they finished last season when it was aborted.

What shape are Woking in heading into the Chesterfield match?

At the moment, very good. The opening two wins were quite unexpected, but they started last season similarly strongly. With a small squad, the hope is that they can keep players fit.

What are Woking’s main strengths and weaknesses?

Josh Casey’s set-pieces have been excellent so far, and 18-year-old Slavi Spasov – on loan from Oxford – has been a revelation up front.

Weaknesses are probably squad depth, but they have nonetheless got game-changers from the bench such as Max Kretzschmar and young Jayden Wareham.

What's Woking's style of play?

A bit of a mix, but Dowson likes to get the ball wide and for his wingers to take people on, to create chances.

Usually very tough to beat, and in Craig Ross they have one of the best keepers in the league.

Who will be Woking’s dangerman on Saturday?

On showings so far, Spasov.

Any injuries/suspensions?

Centre-back Ben Gerring broke his leg in pre-season and is out for a while yet. Ex-England winger Matt Jarvis still working way back to fitness.

Likely line-up and formation?

4-3-3: Ross; Shotton, Cook, Collier, Casey; Cooper, Ferdinand, Block; Goddard, Napa, Spasov.