Sutton United head coach Chris Agutter has outlined his team's singular focus on Friday's away match against Gateshead as they look to protect a perfect start to the 2026/27 National League season. Speaking to the club's official website, Agutter dismissed any distraction from Monday's subsequent fixture, insisting all preparation is geared towards the long trip north.
Agutter described the mood as positive following a second consecutive home win last weekend against Hartlepool United. "Without sounding like a broken record, the reaction to another positive result has been quite simple: well done, but we need to be better and improve," the head coach said. The team currently sits atop the early standings with maximum points from their opening games.
What is the challenge posed by Gateshead?
Friday's opponents, managed by former Premier League midfielder Lee Cattermole, are expected to provide a distinct tactical test. Agutter identified Gateshead as a possession-based side with a clear identity of controlling the centre of the pitch. "They’ve got a young, talented group with a sprinkling of experience," he explained, noting their style has been consistent regardless of manager. Preparation has involved analysing their strengths and weaknesses to formulate a game plan.
Despite Cattermole's top-flight background, Agutter downplayed its significance for the match. "Football’s a small world and, to be fair, you only hear positives about Lee Cattermole and the work he does on the training pitch." he stated. The Sutton boss emphasized that the contest will ultimately be decided by the players on the field.
How does Sutton United prepare for away games?
Agutter revealed his staff treats every match as a "mini-project," with processes tailored to each specific opponent. While factors like travel, different pitch dimensions, and playing surfaces are considered, the core analytical work on possession, transition, and set pieces remains consistent. This approach was used for the opening-day victory at Woking and will be applied again for the journey to Tyneside, the longest of the campaign.
The team's upcoming schedule is congested, with the Bank Holiday Monday home game against Wealdstone following quickly. You can view the full list of upcoming matches on the club's fixtures page. Agutter confirmed he has not yet begun planning for that match, maintaining a strict one-game-at-a-time mentality.
What role will the supporters play?
A strong away following is anticipated to make the trip to the North-East, and Agutter welcomed the Friday night kick-off under the lights for the atmosphere it generates. "We’re really pleased it’s midweek, and I think under the lights there’s always a bit more atmosphere," he said. He believes the setting will suit his team more than a traditional Saturday afternoon match at the open Gateshead International Stadium.
The head coach acknowledged the importance of rewarding the fans' loyalty after a difficult couple of seasons. "We’re delighted that we’ve given them the start that they deserve," Agutter noted. "We’ll have decent support up there, and we will give absolutely everything to make sure those guys have a journey which is enjoyable, both on and off the pitch." the full squad, which you can review in detail on the squad page, features a blend of experience and new signings aimed at sustaining this early form. Sutton United's next match after the Gateshead trip is at home to Wealdstone on Monday, 7 September.
