Neil Harris has declared that Cambridge United will get better, as he prepares his side for their League One visit to Burton Albion on Saturday.
Speaking to BBC Radio Cambridgeshire ahead of the fixture, Harris struck a confident tone despite acknowledging there is still room for growth. The Cambridge manager was clear that he sees the trip to the Pirelli Stadium as a genuine test, but one his squad are ready to face.
Work still to do
"I expect us to get better," Harris told the broadcaster. The remark carries weight at this stage of the season. Cambridge have been finding their feet, and the manager appears focused on steady progress rather than short-term results alone.
Harris has been shaping his squad throughout the summer, overseeing a number of arrivals that include loanees and permanent signings. The group is still bedding in, and the manager appears to see the Burton fixture as a measure of how far his side have come, as well as a chance to push on.
A tough venue to visit
Burton represent a sharp challenge. The Pirelli Stadium has been a difficult ground for visiting sides, and Albion have shown they are capable of putting teams to the sword at home this season. Cambridge will need to be organised defensively and clinical when chances arrive.
Harris's side are away from the Abbey Stadium for this one, which demands a different kind of mentality. Road trips in League One can expose weaknesses quickly, and the United manager will know that his words about improvement need to be backed up on the pitch.
Building momentum
Cambridge have been active in the transfer market and their squad has grown in depth since the opening weeks. Harris has spoken previously about wanting his players to settle quickly and take ownership of their roles, and those themes appear to run through his pre-match messaging too.
The third tier is unforgiving in how little time managers get to find a rhythm. Harris, an experienced hand at this level, understands that patience is a luxury rarely afforded in League One. His public expectation of improvement suggests he believes the raw material is there; the job now is to extract it consistently.
For Cambridge supporters making the trip to Burton, or following from home, the manager's message is clear: this team has more to give, and the Pirelli fixture is a chance to show it.
Kick-off is at 15:00.
Frequently asked
- When do Cambridge United play Burton Albion?
- Cambridge United travel to Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium for a 15:00 kick-off in League One.
- What did Neil Harris say about Cambridge United's form?
- Harris said he expects Cambridge United to get better, suggesting he is confident the squad has more to give as the season develops.
- Where is Burton Albion's ground?
- Burton Albion play their home matches at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton upon Trent.