Nigel Clough: Mansfield Town boss says season 'will not be defined' by Notts County game

Nigel Clough has been Mansfield boss since November 2020

Mansfield Town boss Nigel Clough says Saturday's Nottinghamshire derby against Notts County will not define the Stags' season.

Injuries and suspensions mean the Stags could be without nine players.

Jordan Bowery and Stephen Quinn are banned after being sent off in the loss at AFC Wimbledon, while Aden Flint is doubtful with a shoulder injury,

"Things like the weekend will only strengthen our resolve," Clough told BBC Radio Nottingham.

"Whatever it is, it will not defeat us this season. The adversity we have faced in previous seasons, I think makes us better equipped to deal with it."

Mansfield, who have had a number of near misses in their quest for promotion from League Two in recent years, are third in table after 28 games.

They remain just inside the automatic promotion spots despite winning just one of their past six league games since 29 December.

Defeat by Wimbledon, however, was just their third League Two defeat of the season.

Their remarkable start to the season, which saw them beaten just once in their first 24 league games, included a memorable 4-1 win against Notts at Meadow Lane in October.

"The result on Saturday won't define our season," Clough said.

"We are still in a great position and we still have a very good team and squad."

In the lead up to Saturday's derby, Clough has also been charged by the Football Association for misconduct for alleged language aimed at referee Will Finnie following the 2-1 loss at Wimbledon.

In a post match interview, the Stags boss said the officiating at Plough Lane was "below par" and "a whole new level of ineptitude".