Derby Hero Ward Insists Team Won't Slack

Last updated : 02 September 2004 By @blades_mad1889

Ashley Ward celebrates his goal against Leeds last Sunday.
With Internationals taking place the Blades have been given a weekend off after a pile upof fixtures which saw them play three games in ten days against Stockport, Leeds and QPR, games which United successfully won.

But the 33 year old striker who scored the first goal in the 2-0 destruction of Leeds would rather put in extra training than take a days rest.

"It's a shame we can't prepare fully for the big game against West Ham yet - the international lads will not be back until Thursday or Friday next week, but it's the same for most sides in our division," said Ward.

"Rather than working towards a game the coaches have been able to put on specific sessions, which is a benefit to both them and the lads.

"The coaches have been working with a smaller squad because of those on international duty, but the sessions have been good and it's given us the chance to recover after two games in 48 hours."