The National League play-offs kick-off tonight as Aldershot host Ebbsfleet United, and Sutton boss Paul Doswell has revealed he wants to face the Shots at Wembley.
Doswell – who landed himself in hot water with Aldershot just a few months ago with comments relating to artificial pitches and finance – was gushing in his praise about the Hampshire club this week, also labelling them as the ‘best footballing side’ in the division.
The Sutton manager led his side to a 2-1 win over Aldershot to secure third place on the final day of the season, and he now hopes to meet them again in the final.
Speaking this week, in an all-out and slightly cringewrothy charm offensive, Doswell also lavished praise on the Aldershot fans: “Credit to the Aldershot supporters; they really supported their team (on Saturday),” he said.
“I’ve been on record already saying I think (Aldershot) are the best footballing side in this division and that’s what we had to beat.
“But that’s two good teams in the play-offs and it will be a great final if the two of us can get there. I’d like that. I’d like to have the final against Aldershot, a club that is obviously close to where I live as well.
“As I said, I think they are an excellent club run by an excellent two guys in Gary and James.”
Aldershot will have to successfully negotiate their way past Ebbsfleet in tonight’s game before coming through a game at Prenton Park against Tranmere if they are to reach Wembley.
Sutton, meanwhile, will play either Boreham Wood or AFC Fylde in their semi-final at Gander Green Lane on Sunday.
