Hartley Wintney: Exclusive Manager Interview

How do you feel pre-season training is going?

Pre-season is going really well for us.
The sessions from the coaches Keith, Sam, Mark and Luke have been excellent.

I’m sure the players would like it to be a little cooler but it’s the same across the board! The England World Cup fixtures have meant we have moved a few days around to accommodate all our desires to cheer on the mighty Three Lions. The lads have been great at getting to training on different days and times to allow this to happen.

Have you already made any signings?

Matt Evans, a combined services and Army defender. Forward Ross Cook returns to the club after winning the FA Vase. Also tricky winger Claudio Herbert joins us from Salisbury.
We are delighted to have the lads on board and will be looking to add a couple of others to the squad in the coming weeks.

Which positions are you looking to strengthen?

We are always looking to strengthen, but this can also be achieved from developing the existing players as much as making new signings. We will have competition in every role and this we are sure will heighten performance and subsequently strengthen positions.

What aims do you have for this season?

Of course like all Clubs we aim to win every game, win cups and titles. But in truth, myself and Anthony do not like to set aims for the coming season. We prefer a more organic approach taking each game as it comes.

We know how tough the games ahead will be for us and the Club this season. Step 3 is a big challenge for us having not had chance to fully bed in with a couple of seasons at Step 4. If we can remain focused on each game as it comes then I’m sure we can do well.

By Charlie Pearce