Humphreys happy after Ilkeston win

The player-coach came on as a half-time substitute and within 90 seconds had put his side ahead, further goals from Ched Evans and Jake Beesley wrapping up the win.

And Humphreys said whilst it was pleasing to net his first goal in some time, the overall runout was encouraging with the new season just two weeks away.

He said: “We had lots of possession which was quite tiring in the heat but it was pleasing we stayed tight at the back and then got the goals. The second goal was from a set piece we’ve worked on in training so that was another positive.

“It was nice to get on the scoresheet of course but more importantly we needed that first goal to break the game down as we’d had a lot of possession without putting the ball in the net.

Humphreys added that he has relished the role of player-coach this summer even with it meaning he has extra responsibilities both on and off the pitch.

He added: “I’ve had more roles and responsibilities this year but the aim is still to stay as fit as possible and train to my maximum which is what I’ve done.

“I enjoy it and always have done. I’ve been doing it 20 years now and if you can’t go out on a Saturday and enjoy it then it’s time to stop, but that’s not the case for me yet.

The Spireites now look towards Tuesday night and a home clash with Derby County for what will be former defender Shane Nicholson’s testimonial.

He said: “Tuesday will be a great occasion, not least for Shane Nicholson who deserves his testimonial, but for us from a playing point of view.

“We’re getting very close now and are ramping things up with each game, so we’re intent on improving with every match so we’re ready for Oxford on the opening day.”