New Weston Football Club manager Marc McGregor has given his first interview since taking over from Scott Bartlett yesterday (Thursday).
McGregor exclusively spoke to the Mercury about his aspirations for the squad and his ‘excitement’ at getting the team ready for the new season.
The former striker needs little introduction to Seagulls fans as he played for a number of seasons for the Seagulls and even took on the role of assistant manager back in 2014.
The 39-year-old said he has inherited a talented squad and although the turnaround has been quick, he has already spoken to all of the players.
He said: “Management is definitely something I was looking to go in to. I have had some offers from elsewhere, but it seemed to be the right time to go to Weston.
“I am close to Forest Green so I kind of knew that things were going on at the club and it might have affected Scott.
“So as much as it has moved quickly, football is a small world.”
McGregor applied for the role after Ryan Northmore was sacked, but said he feels the club is in ‘a better place’ now than then.
He added: “I have known Scott for a while and he has done a great job. I think the club is in a better place now and although I will put my own stamp on it, there is a very talented set of players there already – some which could play at a higher level and we are lucky to have.
“Some of the players are on holiday, but I have managed to speak to all of them one way or another.
“I am really pleased with the squad, but we need to add some depth. I will need to use the loan market, and what Scott did was get the right loan players in.
“I like to have a squad with a togetherness.”
MORE: Former Weston head coach speaks out after his departure.
When asked if assistant head coach Chris Barker and goalkeeper coach Ian Harris would remain in their roles, McGregor said there will be positions available for them.
He said: “I have spoken to them both and made it clear there are roles available for them. I am not here to ruffle any feathers, I am here to take forward what Scott did.
“I always say to the players it is their squad, because once they get out on the pitch, it is up to them. I am just there to guide them.”
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