New Finch coach fears mass exodus

Anthony Smith • Published 13 May 2010 12:10 0 Comments

NEW Finchampstead manager Steve Cox fears a player exodus over the summer months.

The former reserve team boss, who has succeeded Neil White, admits he faces a battle to keep hold of his top players and stop them joining rival clubs.

But he remains confident that along with his assistant Jon Laugharne and coach Terry Brazier they can keep Finch on an even keel in Hellenic League Division One East.

Cox told the News: "It's more rumour than fact but a few lads might leave.

"It's the usual thing at this time of year so we need to talk to them to see what's going on.

"Neil was at he club a long time and some players were very close to him. So now he's gone it's up in the air."

One player who could be on the move is Tom Hopper following rumours of a switch to Binfield.

Cox added: "The other problems is there are four Hellenic Premier Division sides nearby in Bracknell, Wokingham, Binfield and Ascot United and some players may want to play at a higher level.

"It will be interesting to see what happens if their loyalty is tested. But it goes without saying that the higher you go the more rewards there are."

Finch are also heading into an uncertain period off the field with long-serving president Richard Whitchurch-Bennett due to step down next month after more than 20 years at the club.

"I've been involved in football a long time and it's going to be a challenge for us," admitted Cox.

"There have been a lot of changes at Finch with Neil White retiring and Richard Whitchurch-Bennett going too.

"Richard did an incredible amount of work behind the scenes and the will be very tough to replace. Picking 11 players on a Saturday is easy compared to all the work he does, he took on so much.

"With Neil White, pictured, going there have been big changes. There's so much to sort out because pre-season will be upon us quickly."

Regardless who goes and who stays, Cox believes he has the right men beside him to steer Finch through a transitional period.

"Terry is an excellent coach and Jon was outstanding throughout the season with the Finch reserve team," he stressed. "The management structure is fine, it's just a question of getting down to the hard work. But I had no illusions it would be any different.

"There are a lot of exciting young players at Finch and I guarantee a few of them will be getting a chance next season."

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