Mansfield Town

Stags' winger Omari Sterling-James says he is out to 'prove a point to himself,' as he sets out to make more appearances for Mansfield Town next season.

The 24-year-old spent time on loan at Solihull Moors last season while also making a total of 20 appearances for Mansfield, but looks to show much more of his capabilities in the upcoming campaign.

“It’s a big difference from last season when I wasn’t as fit,” Sterling-James said. “I’m feeling 10 times better than I was last season.

“I’m proving a point to myself, because I know I can do better than I was doing last season. That’s who I’m proving a point to.”

The wide-man continued his fine pre-season campaign on Wednesday night at One Call Stadium, providing a fantastic long pass to set up the Stags’ third goal in their 3-1 win over Derby County.

Sterling-James came on in the 58th-minute when the game was goalless, before he and the eight other Mansfield Town subs immediately generated a massive spark. His clever pass with the outside of his right boot led to a CJ Hamilton goal, helping seal the victory for the Stags.

“It was a good phase of play,” Sterling-James said. “We defended the first corner and it went out for a second corner, then I’ve seen it come out and thought I could get to the ball first, attack them, and go for their throat because they were a bit tired.”

“I’m proving a point to myself, because I know I can do better than I was doing last season. That’s who I’m proving a point to.”

The performance was impressive from both Sterling-James and the Stags as a unit, as they earned a win over a Derby County side that reached the Championship play-offs last season.

“It was tiring,” Sterling-James said. “They move the ball well inside pockets so you’ve got to think and you can’t switch off. If you switch off for a second they’re going to hurt you. So it’s literally just mental strength to make sure you stay on it for the whole course of however long you’re on the pitch for.”