“I would rather talk about the job I'm doing than the fictional ones that I’m not…”
On a busy morning of press duties, Mark Bonner looked forward to a challenging clash against Derby County that awaits his side this weekend, as well as putting to bed the heavy rumours that have circulated throughout the week.
During his two-and-a-half year tenure, the Head Coach has found himself in the headlines several times after masterminding memorable victories on the pitch. However, the 36-year-old has been in the news this week after speculation surrounding a vacant managerial position.
It was music to the ears of the United faithful on Thursday morning then when he declared, "Speculation is rife in football. I'm here, I’m staying here, I’m not going anywhere.
"There’s nothing for fans to worry about if they were… There have been a few rumours on social media, other than that I am not sure what else has happened. I don’t know what drama has gone on in everyone’s world, but mine and theirs (the players) has been pretty calm this week.
"I am one of I think a number of people that have had a conversation, and the outcome of the conversation is that I am here.
“I’m really enjoying my time here. I think we’re midway through a bit of a project, and we’re not quite where we want to be yet.
“I’m well aware of the amount of work we’ve got to do yet, and not kidded on by our current position in the league table.”
Looking forward, Mark highlighted a “brilliant month” that awaits the group, stating that whilst it’ll prove a true test of grit and determination, they’ll relish it, even if it does mean the return of the “underdog spirit”. That starts when the Rams come to town in what will be a vibrant Abbey, with an electric noise generated from all four sides of the ground.
"The situation is to crack on and get to work and look forward to a really loud atmosphere on Saturday in what I think will be a really tough game.
"We know how difficult Derby County will be in any season at any time, and with so many top players they’ve signed, but they’ve got the bounce of the new manager in Paul Warne this week, so that makes it doubly difficult potentially. We know how tough his teams can be… but the boys are in good shape."
Following back-to-back wins, it’s no surprise morale is high within the group. Mark highlights the togetherness, and overall quality, his team possesses.
"I don’t remember a time where we’ve had so many good forward options. We’ve certainly got a stronger squad than what we’ve had – it doesn’t change our overall level and expectations, but it does give us options and hopefully a chance of putting points on the board.”
Not that fans need reminding, but the U’s are in the midst of some glory days. Mark Bonner will continue to grow with Cambridge United, just as Cambridge United will grow with Mark Bonner.