Stevenage have one thing to thank and one thing only when it comes to explaining their stellar season according to Don Goodman - Steve Evans.

The former Sunderland and Wolverhampton Wanderers striker says the manager has been the driving force behind Boro's climb to second in League Two and the fourth round of the FA Cup - they are due to face Stoke City this afternoon.

Speaking to OLBG, the now TV pundit said: "It's simple really, they appointed Steve Evans.

"He was brought in to save them from relegation from the Football League at the end of last season.

"They were three points above the drop zone, and they ended up winning four from the last nine games to survive.

"He's taken it on from there, they've managed to keep that momentum going and he's been allowed to add to the squad and change it.

"A full pre-season with the team has allowed Steve Evans to implement his style and he has pedigree at that lower level.

"He gets teams promoted from the lower leagues and the fact they've just beaten Leyton Orient 3-0 who are streets ahead, along with Stevenage, says a lot.

"I think those two teams will go up automatically, but it really comes down to the Steve Evans effect.

"I'm sure Stevenage are very happy they made that appointment now."