Torquay United Fans Forum

Out of the 3 non league managers I named hed have been my 3rd choice. Purely because hes had a larger budget than the others and also the language he uses is atrocious. That said has he got history at playing a decent level? I think players need a manager or coach they can relate to.

Just seen hes resigned. Anyone know his background? Did he use to play for anyone? I know he was kitman at Reading for the youth team. If its anything like when I last watched Hungerford. If youre sat near the dugouts. Bring your earplugs.

Absolutely agree with that Bomber. You dont get much bigger than having contacts at Chelsea and as for the South-West area realistically Bristol City, Swindon and Reading are as good as its going to get. I think its an avenue worth exploring and would be surprised and disappointed if someone like this didnt get an interview to atleast see what they can offer. I live in Bath and watched Chippenham beat them 5-2 a week back. Very impressive. Had me thinking since then that would be interesting to see what could be done at a bigger club.

I think we have to be realistic. The main thing is a manager who can settle a sinking ship (which we are and anyone who says otherwise is in denial). This is done by showing loyalty to a club and also by contacts at clubs to help signings. A strong coaching background is also important in my eyes. As I mentioned with the opening thread the managers mentioned offer that. Mark Collier for example currently has players on loan from Chelsea and Bristol City so must have good contacts at the clubs? Also his assistant is an ex pro who has played in the football league for Swindon and Reading so could offer further contacts? Budget is important and loan players will be needed. I wouldnt mind a player from Chelsea thats for sure.

So I'm thinking looking at simular level managers who have been at clubs for a long period of time and transformed them.

Mark Collier at Chippenham Town- Took over 3 years ago bottom of the league, keeping them up and has improved them every season and recently winning the Southern league with a record amount of points into the National League South. Also has an assistant who has a good coaching background and they were succesful together at Supermarine on a shoe string budget previous to Chippenham.

Bobby Wilkinson at Hungeford Town- Been at Hungerford for years. Had a couple promotions in that time. And had a decent 1st season in the National South.

Tommy Killick at Poole Town- Couple promotions at Poole and again had a strong 1st season in the National South. Also pretty local so will know the area and where to pull out the talent?

What are peoples thoughts?

I feel we need to go for someone used to working on tighter budgets within the league but have still been successful. I think looking around clubs of a simular level in the South-West area who have been succesful is wise. Maybe the likes of Poole, Hungerford, Chippenham. All promotions on what one would assume are smaller budgets.