I have no idea when I'll be back, says Sampson

ALMOST a year on from his small stroke that put his management career on hold, Tommy Sampson has said he has found the going tough during his recovery, writes Stephen McCartney.

Sampson, who was the manager of Sussex County League side Redhill at the time of his stroke last December, is a friend of so many here in Kent, having managed Tonbridge Angels, Sheppey United, Herne Bay, Deal Town, Ashford Town and Dartford.

And Sampson, speaking to www.kentishfootball.co.uk, says progress has been slow as he bids to return to football management.

“I am coming up to a year, it’s been hard to get back to some sort of good health,” he said.

“It’s been a tough year both physically and mentally. I am currently trying to walk without any aids and this is proving to be very tough.

“I can assure people it has been the toughest year of my life and good well wishes from around Kent football have kept my spirits up.

“I have no idea when I’ll return to football, there is still some work to be done but the enforced absence from the game has made me realise how football has been such a big part of my life.

“My return to the game can’t come quick enough. I was always told by the professional people how hard this would be and they have certainly been proved right!”

Sampson thanked everybody for their support and best wishes during his enforced spell away from the game.

He said: “I would like to think my return would be sooner rather than later as I feel the book isn’t finished. I still have chapters to write, but it is in the lap of the gods as to when this will be.

“We are grateful to all those in Kent and beyond the county for their best wishes and continued support to my recovery.”

Redhill are currently sitting in fourth place in the Sussex County League table, just two points behind leaders Eastbourne United after fifteen games.

And Sampson believes the Surrey club are good enough to clinch promotion into the Ryman League.

“I am spurred on by the knowledge that the team we’ve put together at Redhill will achieve a title winning campaign in the next few months,” he said.

“Let’s hope some Tommy Sampson luck falls upon us next year for me to make further recovery and steps towards getting back into the dug out.”

With the festive period fast approaching, Sampson added: “Sandie and I would like to pass on our good wishes for Christmas and the New Year to all our friends that have provided endless support through this difficult time.”