Beckingham asks for patience as he bids to put Trams back on right track

TONY BECKINGHAM says he is relishing the opportunity of leading Croydon back into the Ryman League - but asks for patience as this will not happen overnight, writes Stephen McCartney.

The 42-year-old took the helm at the Bulmers Cider Kent League club last Thursday, having met chairman Dickson Gill two days earlier.

He replaces former Dover Athletic striker David Leworthy, who was forced to step down through work commitments.

Beckingham, who brings Ken Thurgood and goalkeeping coach Tony Prime with him, quit rivals Holmesdale thirteen days ago, as the Oakley Road club didn’t fulfil his own personal ambitions - which were managing a side in the Ryman League.

The Dalers’ were, and still are, second in the table and Beckingham admits the trio will need to work hard to get Croydon, currently in 12^th place and 21 points behind leaders Hythe Town, up the table.

Beckingham is the third manager at the Croydon Sports Arena this season, the other being Mark Tompkins, who began the season in charge.

“We’re very happy to be at Croydon with all it’s history and reputation and look forward to the challenge of taking the club back where it belongs,” Beckingham told www.croydon-fc.co.uk.

“It’s going to take a while to put our own stamp on the team, but after Saturday the good news is I think we have plenty to work with.

“We came to Croydon because we could see the enormous potential the club has. It’s been well documented that Croydon has had a few managers in recent times, but after meeting Dickson (Gill) and having a full and frank discussion, we felt we could take the club forward.

“I don’t like making too many predictions but with what we’ve got to work with, I’d say a top six finish is achievable and where we’re looking.

“If it’s higher then great and if we fall short, then that’s no problem either.

“For us, it’s all about bringing a bit of stability to the team and gearing up for next season.”

Beckingham has vowed to bring belief back into the team, especially as they’ve had to get used to two previous managers.

“As stated there have been a few managers come and go so it’s not surprising that the players may feel a bit unsettled,” he said.

“The most important thing for us to do right now is change that mindset. This in some ways is even more important than the results just at the moment.

“We can assure everyone that we are at Croydon for the long haul. We are not club hoppers.”

After Saturday’s goal-less draw at home to Herne Bay, Beckingham will be in charge of the return leg at Winch’s Field at the weekend.

And winning the Bulmers Cider Kent League Cup at the end of the season is on the new manager’s wish list.

He said: “There is no doubt in my mind that we can win the League Cup but just having the ability to win it is not enough.

“There is a very tricky second leg to try and get through on Saturday and then who knows. It’s always nice to have a cup final to look forward to at the end of the season.

“It certainly keeps players on their toes and I’m hoping that the FA Vase disappointment will work in our favour.

“In my opinion there is no substitute for hard work and organisation and if you do that consistently then you will get your rewards. Winning drives me on and the enjoyment comes from that. I’m afraid that the taking part is just not enough.”

This is the club’s third season in the Kent League and some think that’s been too long in the division.

And Beckingham agrees, saying, “In the short term I would like to see Croydon challenging for promotion from the Kent League and I see absolutely no reason why this shouldn’t happen.

“This is going to take a bit of time to come together and patience is the key word. Unless you have unlimited resources this is not going to happen overnight but I’m confident that we can start to improve in the near future.

“The club have the facilities to gain promotion and that’s got to be the long term aim but let’s take one step at a time.

“I think there were a few plus points on Saturday and obviously some other issues that need to be dealt with. This will happen but it needs to be done properly and when the time is right.

“By the time next season comes round I think you will see a new and improved Croydon, fingers crossed.

“There is without doubt a nucleus of very good players at the club. We just need to add the right players to the ones we already have.”

Quotes courtesy of www.croydon-fc.co.uk

Herne Bay v Croydon
Bulmers Cider Kent League Cup Quarter-Final Second Leg
Saturday 31^st January 2009
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Winch’s Field, Stanley Gardens, Herne Bay, Kent CT6 5SG