Roach to guide emerging stars

The vastly experienced 38-year-old former Reading and Southend striker, pictured, is back at EVO-STIK League Southern Premier Division club as U21s manager.

Appointed to work alongside manager Terry Brown at The Camrose on Monday, Roach enjoyed a successful spell as a player at the Hampshire club during a long career that saw him turn out for a host of Non-League clubs including Harrow Borough, Kingstonian, Eastleigh, Farnborough Town, Maidenhead United, Slough Town, Torquay United and Uxbridge.

Roach, who's also managed Hartley Wintney and Thatcham Town, told fans that he is looking forward to making the progression and development of Basingstoke's young players his priority in a club statement welcoming him back.

He said: “I’m delighted that I have been given the opportunity to work with the U21s at Basingstoke. After having conversations with manager Terry Brown and head coach Jason Bristow, it was an easy decision to make due to the fact that the club is moving in the right direction, which matches my ambitions."

He added: “I am really looking forward to the challenge ahead. Hopefully, with my knowledge and experience, I can help push the young players on to fulfill their dreams."