Michael Appleton is relishing the prospect of playing in front of Imps supporters regularly again as the 2021/22 season gets underway for real on Saturday.
After a 2020/21 campaign which was played mostly behind closed doors, the Imps boss hopes fans can act as the fabled 12th man at games starting with this weekend’s trip to Gillingham.
He said: “I hope players embrace it this season. I couldn’t ask for anymore on the road with the best away record in the league, if we get anywhere near that this season then I’ll be delighted.
“Our home form was probably middle of the road last year. There were certain games last year where, with the atmosphere we know can be created at the LNER Stadium, they can almost be our 12th man and suck the ball into the net.”
Pre-season performances have improved in each match, with a win at Sky Bet League Two title favourites Salford City last time, and Appleton says everyone is raring to go in competitive action.
He added: “The lads are ready for the game, when the whistle goes at 3pm it is all systems go.
“Steve Evans gets his teams organised and makes it very difficult for the opposition. You’ve got two competitive people who want to win for their team and hopefully it’ll be a good game.”