Manager Steve Cotterill and winger Tom Knowles have been speaking to the press ahead of this weekend's visit to the J Davidson Stadium to face an in-form Altrincham side.

Saturday also marks a special occasion - a year to the day since the Cotterill joined Forest Green.

With a win rate just shy of 50%, Rovers are certainly heading in the right direction under our experienced Gaffer.

"It's been hard work, we've had lots of things to get better at and change - lots of help too but it's better," said Cotterill.

"I'm 100% happy that we're heading in the right direction - maybe not at the speed that I want to go at but I would be impatient with that. There's no reason not to be impatient because you want to make things as good as you can, as quickly as you can."

"The backing is good from Dale (Vince). He's left me alone to do the job which is nice because that means he trusts me but it's not just the backing from above - it's the backing from below too.

"All of the staff and players have to be on the same page and there is that.

"There's a feel good factor and want to do well for each other - when we fall short of that sometimes from time to time, we want to make up for that and that's a good recipe for success. We have that good harmony at the football club."

Facing an Altrincham side who have conceded just eight goals at home in their 13 matches so far represents a home goals conceded record only bettered by Rochdale (7).

"We had a good game earlier on in the season against them, we've improved since then so hopefully we'll show that.

"They've had a good run of late and got themselves into a top six position - I would imagine they will be pretty pleased with how they've done." added Cotterill.

Wide man Knowles was also speaking yesterday ahead of Saturday's trip.

His consistency and injury-free season has seen enjoy a fruitful campaign to date - and Jordon Garrick's progression with fitness is adding to the competition in wide areas.

"Competition makes us better and make us perform to our maximum. The whole squad is going to be needed so it's definitely very important. I'll be pushing Jordon and he'll be pushing me."

And with the resolve in the side shown in an unbeaten league run since September - Rovers will be looking to extend that run come 5PM on Saturday afternoon.

Knowles concluded: "We're unbeaten in a while and for a reason. We always stay in the game - whether that's being in front or coming from behind. We've shown every aspect of our game so far this season."

Join us in Greater Manchester as we face a stern test against Altricnham this weekend - all ticket information can be found using this link.