Smith & Jones Ride Into Town - 6 June
Abingdon Town are delighted to announce Shaun Smith will remain at the club next season as Manager, along with the appointment of Gavin Jones as assistant manager.
 Manager Shaun Smith commented. "When my assistant, Andy Cummings, told me last week he didn’t think he could commit the time next season I started to think who could replace him. Historically I have always had a player as my number 2, as I feel they can give you a different view from being on the pitch as opposed to both standing there watching. Gav came to mind almost straight away and after meeting with the chairman it became apparent he felt the same way so I meet with Gav on Tuesday night and almost immediately , the decision was made."
"It is a massive coup for the club, firstly, he is a really genuine lad who always gives his all and has a great honesty and integrity which is really important in a number 2. He has a knowledge of local players and is very well respected amongst the local footballer fraternity. He seems really passionate about the club and shares my vision of where we see the club going in the next couple of years. He also appears to have a completely different personality to me which will aid myself and the team. If you like I can be my usual grumpy self, and he can be the nice guy.. Finally and probably most importantly I am delighted to say he will be playing again next season which is brilliant as he is one of our key players." Humorously Smith joked. "Which is one more player than I had at the start of last season, so things are looking up but if any new signings want to wear number 11 shirt it could be an issue!”
 Jones commented on joining the club. "I am looking forward to the challenge ahead and my aim for this season just like Shaun’s. To try and add to our current squad with a good bunch of lads that want to firstly play for Abingdon Town and hopefully bring in the correct people who will help us build/improve our team spirit. I think a realistic aim would be to finish in the top half of the table and have a good little cup run along the way. Along with a few beers here and there!!! (obviously on a Saturday night)".
Pre-season is going to start at The Town on 2nd July (which is only four weeks away) and the management team will be working tirelessly to try and attract some quality new players to add to the ones we manage to keep from last season.
"Smith and Jones" are now on the case of sourcing these potential targets and are really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead, especially with the prospect of a real local derby returning with the old foe Abingdon United. |
