Huddersfield Town v Blackburn: No need to panic at the John Smith’s Stadium

The Terriers lost 2-0 to Hull City a week ago, a result that was not wholly unexpected considering the newly-relegated club’s starting XI cost a little over £26m. In contrast, only Nahki Wells of the Town line-up cost a seven-figure fee.

Tuesday night, however, was a different prospect entirely with Huddersfield humbled on home soil by League Two Notts County. The fact the Magpies played the final 20 minutes with only ten men did nothing to improve the mood of dejected fans as they made the way home at the final whistle.

With back-to-back home games against Blackburn Rovers and Brighton & Hove Albion in the next four days, Powell is looking for a response from his team.

“I have to be level-headed,” said the Terriers chief, “as I must lead this team. We still have 45 league games left this season.

“We are only in August. There is no need for panic, as we still have plenty of games to go.

“Tuesday night happened, but we have to carry on. We have to think about what lies ahead, which is Blackburn at home.

“We are not even thinking about Brighton yet; it is all about the next game. Our training sessions aim to help the group get better. Positivity is key.”

When the fixtures were published in June, Town always looked to have a tough start.

Newly-relegated Hull being followed by the return of former striker Jordan Rhodes with Blackburn is a test, as is having to also take on Brighton, Fulham and QPR by the time the first international break comes round.

Powell added: “We have to show some character, as we need to turn up and play the way we can.

“Our attitude must be spot on, which it will be because of the personality I have seen in the group since I have been here.

“We must meet this challenge head on and I’m very confident my players will.”