Chesterfield return to training as preparations begin for first game of 2021 against Solihull Moors

The Spireites squad met up for the first time on Wednesday (December 30) after a 10-day isolation period following positive Covid tests in the camp.

The regulations meant that Town had to postpone three games over the festive period and the players could not train together.

But preparations are now underway for what will be their first match in two weeks since the FA Trophy penalty shootout win against Brackley Town on December 19.

As a result of not playing, the Blues have slipped from 15th to 18th in the National League but have played up to three games fewer than some of their rivals.

James Rowe’s men are only a few places above the relegation zone but they have a seven-point cushion over third from bottom Barnet and are looking up rather than over their shoulder after a five-match unbeaten run.

In fact, the Spireites are actually closer to the play-off positions with just six points separating them and seventh-placed FC Halifax Town who have played three games more.

Saturday’s opponents Solihull, who Town face in back-to-back fixtures, with the return clash taking place next Tuesday (January 5), are 14th and have three more points than Chesterfield but have only played 11 games compared to the Blues’ 13.

Like Town, the Moors have not played over the festive period and their last fixture was also on December 19 in the FA Trophy.