Stags’ wideman Alex MacDonald is already looking ahead to next season with optimism, writes midfielder Joel Byrom.
MacDonald joined the Stags from League One side Oxford United on Deadline Day of the January transfer window and helped the club jump from the bottom half of the table with his all-action displays to within touching distance of the play-off semi-finals.
And after just missing out on a spot in the top seven this season, the determined winger is confident ahead of next season.
“Everyone at the club wants one thing next season and it's up to us as the players to deliver that.
“If I didn’t believe that, I wouldn’t have joined the club.”
On a personal level, the former Oxford winger made 18 appearances after his move from the Kassam Stadium, but he still believes there is more to come from him next season after already vastly improving his fitness.
“I would have liked to have scored more goals and had more assists but I think it took me a while to get going as I was missing that match sharpness.
“As the season went on, I felt stronger and fitter."
With the summer just beginning for MacDonald, it won’t be the same for manager Steve Evans as his work now begins to try to build a team worthy of winning promotion from League Two.
There has been a very positive vibe around One Call Stadium since the turn of the year and MacDonald thinks it’s a great time to be part of the club and believes the whole club has the same ambition for next season.
“I think after a good break away and spending some time with my family, I'll be ready for next season. A season that I think will be exciting for everyone associated with the club.”
Stags have already added goalkeeper Conrad Logan and defender Zander Diamond to their ranks since the end of the season as the gaffer aims to assemble a squad capable of promotion.
You can see both of our new signings, as well as Joel Byrom and Alex MacDonald, in action next season by purchasing a season ticket. Click here for more information on our season ticket prices.
