Flitcroft confident Sterling-James can shine next season

The striker-cum-winger failed to nail down a regular first team spot in his maiden season at Mansfield, making two League Two starts plus 11 substitute appearances – four starts and three sub outings in other competitions – before being sent out on loan to Solihull Moors for the second half of the season.

However, Flitcroft believes the 24-year-old is benefiting from spending time with him on the Portugal training camp this week.

“One player who has impressed me out here has been Omari Sterling-James. I have been able to focus on him and concentrate on him,” said Flitcroft.

“I think he is probably understanding me and Futch (assistant Ben Futcher) more with the more time he’s spending in our company.

“There’s no secret to it – just work hard. The new players who I’ve brought in are telling him Dave Flitcroft is fair if you work hard for the football club.

“By his own admission he has found it difficult to be honest in his work ethic.

“Because of his talent he has got away with dodging work at times – but you can’t do that. The work is there and it’s in front of you. If you take short cuts you don’t get success.”

The manager added: “He has made a real impact since he got out here. It’s been great watching him in this environment.

“I never, ever fall out with a player and close the door. I am very open minded, very flexible and very forgiving.

“My decisions will always be based on how hard somebody wants to work for the football club and what are they prepared to do for the club, for their team mates and our supporters.

“If he’s prepared to give everything then he’ll get everything.”