Nathan Pond: Promotion to Championship would mean the world to Fleetwood Town

Nathan Pond celebrates promotion to League One via the play-off route with Fleetwood Town six years ago

Joey Barton’s men begin their play-off campaign at home to Wycombe Wanderers on Friday night in the first leg of their League One semi-final.

And Pond, who won six promotions during his 15 years at Highbury, believes Fleetwood have the experience and know-how to make it into the Championship.

The 35-year-old told The Gazette: “To be honest I was a bit disappointed the season didn’t carry on really. They were on great form and probably could have made the automatic promotion spots.

“Covid-19 came at a bad time for Fleetwood but they’re still in the play-offs and they have a great opportunity to go up.

“It would be massive to get into the Championship. When I started with the club I don’t think I could have ever dreamed of the club getting this far.

“I really do hope they go on and win promotion. If they do, I just hope they send me a medal to add to my collection!

“I always enjoyed playing in the play-offs – they’re the sort of games you play for.

“When it gets down to the last two or three games, it’s all in your hands. Sometimes in the league you’re relying on other people to drop points. But in the play-offs your destiny is in your own hands and you know if you win three games you’re going up.

“Experience is key in these games and Fleetwood have that with some of the signings they’ve made. They’ve got players that have played in international games, so I think Fleetwood will be more than okay in that department.

“I don’t like making predictions as I don’t want to jinx anything but I’m feeling confident and I’ve got my fingers crossed for them.”

Pond, who made 498 appearances for Fleetwood, added: “It would be brilliant for the club and the chairman to get into the Championship.

“I’ve been back a few times since leaving but obviously I won’t be able to see the match in person, which is a shame.

“When the fixtures fall on different days and I get the chance, I always make sure to get down to Highbury, see the chairman and a few of the old staff.

“I still speak to a few of the ex-players as well, so I’ll always have that bond. The club treat me well, so I miss it when I go back there to watch them. It always brings back good memories.

“There’s probably about nine or 10 lads that are still there from my time, so for them to get promoted would mean the world.”

“For a club the size of Fleetwood to play in the Championship against some massive teams would be brilliant.”