Since returning to the club in November, the focus has been on stabilising the squad and building a platform for consistent performances, and we have made good progress in that period.

We have recruited strategically to strengthen the group, adding quality, balance and competition across the squad. The additions of Antonio Iannelli, James Young, Jamal
Sule, Eric Frundza, Luke Beckwith, Matthew Bonsu, Daniel Forde and Flinn Filler, alongside the return of Alfi Touceda and Taro Chitepo, have improved the overall standard and depth within the group.

Unfortunately, Taro is currently recovering from illness, but when available, he has made a positive impact. A key part of our approach has also been retaining the core of the squad. There has been interest in a number of players, which reflects their performances, but they have remained committed to the direction we are building here.

The environment within the squad is strong and that stability has been important in allowing us to move forward. It has been good working with Phil Granville again, who has taken on the role of assistant manager, and Antonio Mendes as first team coach. Both have played an important role in supporting the development of the group, maintaining standards, and ensuring consistency in our day-to-day work.

There has also been a clear focus on strengthening the pathway throughout the club. Credit must go to Kyle Gibbard and management, who are doing an excellent job with the Under 23s. The recent in-house fixture provided a valuable opportunity to assess players within that group, and we continue to work closely to ensure a clear progression into the first team.

The same applies within the Under 18s. There are a number of talented players developing well, with Mason Leech, Harry Granville and Theo standing out, alongside others who are progressing towards senior football. Credit also goes to Phil Granville and management for the work being done at that level, ensuring players are being developed and prepared for the next stage. Maintaining and strengthening this pathway is a key part of the club’s long-term development.

Since November, there has been a clear improvement in both performances and results, which reflects the work being done by the players and management. We are continuing to build a group that is competitive, organised and committed, with clear standards both on and off the pitch. The objective now is to build consistency in our performances and continue progressing up the table over the remainder of the season.

Overall, I believe the club is in a much stronger position. We have worked hard to stabilise things following a difficult period earlier in the season, and the improvements made have provided a solid foundation to build on. The focus now is to maintain standards, continue our progression and finish the season in a strong and positive position.

The support from everyone around the club has been important in this process, and we will continue to build that connection between the players, management and supporters as we move through the final part of the season. The standards that have been set now need to be maintained consistently, and we will continue to demand that from the group. While there is still work to do, the foundations are now in place for continued progress moving forward.