Keith Alexander was back behind his desk at the Moss Rose yesterday, as eager as ever to restore the Silkmen's fortunes between now and the end of the season.
The gaffer missed Saturday's home defeat against Bournemouth due to a health scare, but after a few days rest as far as he is concerned it is business as usual.
"First and foremost I have been overwhelmed with the messages of support and best wishes I have received," commented Keith. "I like to extend my thanks to everyone for their concern. But I am not one who likes to be centre of attention and it's important we now get back to talking about the football."
"I've watched the games against Bournemouth on DVD and they looked a big and strong side, probably the form team of the league right now. It's tough competing week in, week out against sides with much bigger budgets. And on Saturday I just felt they had that extra bit of quality and strength that we've been missing."
"Gary and I have sat down and discussed at length those areas in which we need to improve and strengthen the squad. We've got a lot of good youngsters at the club and hopefully we can give them more games between now and the end of the season. I reckon a couple more wins and we'll be mathematically safe and then we can start to experiment a bit more."
"We're also looking for a bit more experience. And experience doesn't necessary mean age. You can be 25 and classified as young in most people's eyes but if you have played a couple of hundred games, then that is experience in my eyes. They are the sorts of players we'll be targeting."
"And hopefully they're the sorts of players the likes of John Rooney, JJ, Shaun Brisley and Izak are in the process of becoming. It's all about striking the right balance."
"But the immediate concern is to start picking up some points. With three consecutive games away from home I am hoping the lads can rediscover a bit of form. For whatever reason we just can't seem to get it right at the Moss Rose. Away from home perhaps there is less pressure and that will give us a bit more freedom and confidence to play to our strengths."
"So the games against Luton, Dagenham and Lincoln are big opportunities and ones I want to see a reaction from the players. We showed against Darlington we can do it. We just need to show we can do it more often."
"If we can finished around mid-table that will be a big improvement on last year. I understand the frustrations of those who feel we should be higher. But I suppose it comes down to what you regard as success."
"We know for a fact that there are teams in this division with a playing budget almost three times ours. That's not offered up as an excuse and in no way meant as a slight on our lads. But if you are paying three times as much for players there's a high chance you have better quality players on your books."
"So against that background I believe we have made progress and we'll be working hard to ensure that continues in the future."
