Shropshire Star

Rob Smith: AFC Telford won't underestimate Ramsbottom United

Boss Rob Smith insists there is 'no chance' his AFC Telford United side will underestimate Ramsbottom United in the FA Trophy.

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National League North outfit Telford are two divisions above their Evo-Stik First Division North opponents – and there are 46 places separating the sides in the non-league pyramid.

Smith is wary of the threat the Rams carry though, especially in the likes of former Salford City striker Gareth Seddon

"We are two leagues above them but I have seen them play and they are a good side," said Smith.

"They are all very good on the ball – they have a lot of good passers – and they have got Gareth Seddon and Ryan Salmon up front who have scored goals for fun over the years.

"We can't be fooled as they play some good stuff and have very capable players. There is no chance we will be underestimating them."

Smith is keen for a Trophy run after FA Cup disappointment earlier in the season and said: "Most importantly we want to get back-to-back wins.

"If we don't approach the game with the right mentality and aren't at it then we will get punished.

"We have gone over the plan for the game this week in our two training sessions.

"The players fully understand what is required from them and the task that is in front of them."

Smith has the luxury of a fully-fit squad to choose from for the Trophy clash.

The defence is boosted by the return of Ben Bailey and Dan Preston.

Bailey was suspended for the Darlington clash last weekend while Preston has returned from a loan spell at Evo-Stik Premier side Sutton Coldfield Town.

Going forward, Bradley Reid is fit despite having his head bandaged for the majority of the second half against Darlington following a heavy collision.

"Bradley missed training on Tuesday because of the bang he took to his head against Darlington but he will be fine for the game," added Smith. "We are going up there with the strongest squad I have had available for quite a while."

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