GEOFF HUTT is hoping it’s a case of sweet 16 as Huddersfield Town prepare for a big push for promotion.

And the man who helped take the club into the top flight back in 1970 has called on the squad Lee Clark built to unite in the bid to help his successor bring Championship football to the Galpharm.

“One thing’s for sure – life’s never dull as a Town supporter,” said the 62-year-old former left-back who, having played in all four divisions for the club, remains a big fan.

“We were all disappointed by last Tuesday’s defeat against Sheffield United, but I don’t think too many of us saw what was coming the day after.

“But Dean Hoyle, having backed Lee Clark all the way, has decided a change of manager is needed if we are to get to where we all want to be, and it’s a bold decision.

“We’re all wondering who the next boss is going to be, but one thing’s certain – he will have to work with the current squad because the main transfer deadline has now passed.

“Now it’s a chance for those lads to show they have what it takes to win automatic promotion, and the last 16 games of the season are going to be very interesting.”

Looking back at the previous 30 matches this time, Hutt, who played 277 times for Town in all between 1969 and 1976, added: “Basically, we just haven’t won enough games.

“We certainly haven’t lost many, but we have to start turning some of those draws into three points to get up into that top two.

“Charlton have been very consistent all season and Sheffield United are a strong side who have come into some good form.

“But Sheffield Wednesday have had a few slip-ups of late, and the more points we can get on board, the more pressure will be on the other sides.

“It’s all to play for, and it’s up to the players to pull together, firstly behind Mark Lillis as caretaker, then the new man, whoever he is, and do the business.”

Hutt believes Kallum Higginbotham, Clark’s final signing alongside his Falkirk teammate Murray Wallace, who will join up with Town next season, can play a crucial role.

“I was really impressed with him when he made his debut in the MK Dons game, and disappointed when he wasn’t in the starting side against Sheffield United,” he added.

“We certainly have depth and versatility in the squad and an excellent striker in Jordan Rhodes.

“We have produced some really good performances this season, and if that can be done on a more regular basis, automatic promotion is certainly possible.”