These are exciting times for Thamesmead, insists McMahon

Monday 17th May 2010

THAMESMEAD TOWN boss Keith McMahon says he is surprised that his prized-asset Rikki Cable has dropped down a division to play for Erith & Dartford Town in the Kent League next season, writes Stephen McCartney.

The 24-year-old striker put pen to paper for the artist previously known as Erith Town six days ago, much to the surprise to McMahon.

“That’s Rikki’s decision, not mine,” McMahon told www.kentishfootball.co.uk. “I didn’t know nothing about it so good luck to him. It’s surprising, but good luck to him. I know him well and we just leave it at that, I think.”

Next season promises to be the most exciting in the club’s history.

Last season McMahon’s men finished in seventh place in the Ryman League Division One North table with 67 points from 42 games - with the club’s new facilities being built in the background.

McMahon gave an update on how the £4m redevelopment of Bayliss Avenue is going.

“It’s all meant to be finished by the end of November now,” he confirmed.

“If anyone’s been over there you can see it’s risen really high above the hoardings now. There’s two floors, you get a rough idea.

“I’ve been at the ground every day since the end of the year and every day something new is happening. The brickworks starting, the concrete for the row of seating is in place.

“It’s starting to take shape quite well and it’s moving along quite well.”

With impressive facilities on their way, McMahon admits players would be crazy to leave the club.

“I’ve spoken to the rest of the squad and the rest of them to be done this week,” said McMahon.

“After the season we’ve had last year they’re all ambitious and want to stay.

“The club opens up next year with the new facilities and they all want to be part of it.

“Every player at the club is ambitious - hopefully there will be a couple of new faces on board.”

One new face is Hugo Langton, who arrives as first-team coach, having worked as Steve Lovell’s number two at Ryman League Division One South side Ashford Town since October 2008.

“I’ve got Hugo on board from Ashford as first team coach, which I’m really pleased about,” said McMahon.

“He’s a UEFA A licensed coach and I know him well. He will just add a little bit more professionalism around the place and there will be a couple of new faces behind the scenes.”

McMahon added: “Everyone can see the club’s ambitious, hence all the players, well, nearly all the players are staying for next year as they can it’s exciting times for Thamesmead.

“We’re going to have a first class training facility, a first class ground, our pitch is always good, so it does make it easier to attract new players.”

Meanwhile, the club are searching for a manager to take charge of the under 18 side. For full details email ttfcpress@hotmail.co.uk.

Visit Thamesmead Town’s website: www.thamesmeadtownfc.co.uk