IT’S ALL ABOUT HOLDING YOUR NERVE...

ALL the divisions are starting to take shape as we gear up for the run-in.

In a few weeks, we will be down to single figures in terms of matches left. That’s when you know you’re in the final furlong.

Three points in August is still the same as three in the run-in, but it feels like it’s more important the closer you get to the finishing line!

I said at the start of the season Manchester City would top the Premier League, Cardiff City would get promoted from the Championship, Wigan Athletic would be successful in League One and Luton Town would have a great season in League Two.

All those teams are very much involved at the business end of the season.

League Two is the tightest of all, top and bottom.

I still take the view that Luton will be champions. They appear to be the complete package: supportive board and chief executive, excellent manager and assistant, quality players in each position and brilliant support.

The remaining two automatic promotion spots and four play-off places are being contested by ten clubs, all with the same agenda and fighting the cause.

My Mansfield team are right in the mix and our 5-0 victory over Newport County in midweek was a real confidence booster.

I have often spoken about the quality of players in League Two this season and that can also be said of the managers.

Each is competitive, analytical and football bright. That makes promotion harder this season than any other.

At Mansfield, I want to add another to the many I’ve had. Every one is hard-earned and treasured. Just ask my friend Neil Warnock whose Cardiff lads are sniffing the Premier League.

It’s about being able to grind out results and overcome setbacks.

You need to be able to hold your nerve under pressure. Those that can will be the ones celebrating in May.