ECHOSPORT talks to journalist and Cambridge United supporter Alex Jones ahead of tomorrow's match at Roots Hall.

What have you made of the season so far?

"So far we’ve definitely exceeded all expectations.

"Most fans would’ve had us somewhere in mid-table, despite the strong recruitment in the summer.

"But I don’t think anyone would have expected us to do as well as we have done.

"We’ve suffered a few blips, especially in December, but despite that we’re still in an incredibly strong position going into the second half of the season."

Mark Bonner coached within the youth set up at Southend before heading back to Cambridge. What have you made of the job he's done as manager?

"Mark Bonner has done a superb job, almost from the minute he took over as interim manager.

"The results at the end of Colin Calderwood’s reign were getting so bad, I think the majority of fans didn’t expect Bonner to be able to turn it around - but he’s done that and more.

"Giving him a two year deal was a big risk but so far it’s really paying off."

What do you feel have been the main reasons for Cambridge's good form?

"As I mentioned, we’ve had our wobbles but we’ve done enough to be right at the top end of the table.

"A lot of that is down to Paul Mullin’s incredible consistency.

"We play to his strengths and he’s really become a goal machine.

"Defensively we’ve also made huge improvements, I believe we had the best defensive record in the league until December.

"For the first time in a while we feel strong all over the pitch."

Do you feel Cambridge can maintain their push for promotion?

"Absolutely. Maybe aside from Carlisle, I don’t think any team is a nailed down promotion favourite.

"Going into Tuesday’s game we’re just one point off the automatic promotion places, so the upcoming run of games are crucial if we want to be considered contenders.

"Nobody expects us to do it, not even our own fans I don’t think.

"But I think we’re at least good enough to be a play-off team, if not more.

"This is the strongest Cambridge side we’ve seen in a long time, although we need more strength in depth in the January transfer window if we’re to continue our run of form."

Who would you say are the main threats?

"As I mentioned, Paul Mullin is the star.

"Eighteen goals in 23 League Two games is an absolutely astonishing record and he’s going to be pivotal to our success.

"Wes Hoolahan is, of course, a crucial player for us, but due to his age he can’t play every game and will likely be rested for Tuesday’s game.

"Harvey Knibbs has been benched by Joe Ironside for much of the season, but has looked much more dangerous in recent games, scoring against Colchester over the weekend.

"He’ll definitely be looking to nail down his place up top alongside Mullin."

What's the team news for the game?

"It looks as if Luke Hannant will miss tomorrow’s game.

"He had to come off against Colchester over the weekend after suffering a nasty knock, which leaves Cambridge with no natural wingers in the squad.

"Hoolahan would usually be rested for a midweek game but given the injury to Hannant, he may be asked to step in.

"Other than that, you’re looking at a fully fit Cambridge side.

"Whether the formation changes from Bonner’s favoured 4-4-2 remains to be seen however."