David Artell says that the incentive to progress in the Papa John’s Trophy and take one step closer to a possible Wembley final is all there, but first and foremost the Alex boss is after a much improved performance against Rotherham this evening following the 4-1 defeat at Burton Albion on New Years' Day.

Artell appreciates that key decisions went against us in the match but says that cannot be held up as an excuse for the manner of the defeat at the Pirelli Stadium. Despite having that helping hand with two of their goals, Artell says that the Brewers thoroughly deserved the three points.

Ahead of tonight’s Papa John’s Trophy tie at the Mornflake Stadium, Artell told the club’s official website: “Of course the incentive to progress and take one step closer to Wembley is incentive enough for everyone. I know we are getting closer to it. I don’t know how many more games is it because the focus is only on Rotherham. That will be tough enough on its own.

“The competition is a good one for the lower leagues and the prize money that comes with winning games is most welcome as well but first and foremost we have to perform a lot better than we did on Saturday.

“It is important we get back to producing decent performances again and that gives us a chance. If we don’t against a side as strong as Rotherham, regardless of who plays or not, then it could be a long night.

“We didn’t show that enough on Saturday and we have to get back to that.”