Expectations remain the same despite Rowland signing, says Luchford

FAVERSHAM TOWN joint-manager Justin Luchford has today unveiled the signings of striker Lynden Rowland and the versatile Aaron O’Leary, writes Stephen McCartney.

But despite signing the pair from Ryman Premier League side Maidstone United and Kent League rivals Herne Bay respectively, Luchford, speaking to www.kentishfootball.co.uk today, has put a lid on expectations at Salters Lane this season.

“Other people will give us more expectations,” said Luchford. “For me it’s still the same as I said to you the other week.”

Rowland, 32, becomes the second player to sign for the Lilywhites from Maidstone United - joining central defender Lee Shearer, 30, at the club.

And Luchford is delighted to have finally been able to net the striker.

He said: “We’ve been after him for a while, I haven’t stopped bugging him to be honest with you.

“I’ve said to you before, one of our failings last year was to strengthen the squad as we had quite a lot of youth and I think now we’ve got Shearer, Roy Guiver, Kevin Readings, Dave Soutan, Lynden Rowland and Aaron O’Leary, who has agreed to sign, I think that’s exactly what we’re looking for.

“Lynden’s experience is going to be extremely important, there’s no two ways about that. He’s scored goals wherever he’s gone, which is important and he will be able to help the young lads up front, the likes of Dane Luchford and Mike McKenna.”

Luchford admitted newly appointed coach, Kevin Metcalf, has assisted bringing O’Leary to Salters Lane.

Metcalf managed the cultured left-footed player at Tunbridge Wells and Luchford has been able to sign one of Herne Bay’s best players.

And Luchford said: “He was at Herne Bay last year and he had a lot of work commitments so he couldn’t give it his all, but he’s hungry now and ready to play.

“Kevin’s had a chat with him but I played with Aaron himself a few years ago so I know Aaron anyway. It was good to chat with him and get him on board.

“Aaron will bring that bit of experience. He talks a lot and organises well and can play in a number of positions and his general outlook on football will be beneficial to the club.

“He’s a good lad, mixes well in the changing room and brings stability in midfield. He can pretty much play anywhere. He’s a clever footballer and can read the game well and can do a job at left, back. We’re earmarking him sitting in midfield and dictate things.”

However, despite making some good summer signings, Luchford has still played down the club’s chances of winning the Kent League title.

He added: “These lads will add experience to a young side and they’re part of what we’re trying to do - to improve the club and get us further up the table.

“Expectations are, as far as I’m concerned, haven’t changed. We don’t expect to be up there, just improve.

“These lads should help the young lads kick on.”

Faversham Town open their pre-season friendly campaign with a visit from Andy Hessenthaler’s Dover Athletic on Saturday 12^th July 2008.

The former Gillingham star clinched the Ryman League Division One South title during his first season at Crabble and Luchford is looking forward to the Salters Lane warm-up.

“Hessy is a good friend of mine,” revealed Luchford. “I’m playing in a Faversham golf day with him next Friday, we’re in the same team.

“I’m hoping the press will come down and take photos.

“I was over the ground yesterday and the pitch looks fantastic. We’re not expecting, but hoping for a really good crowd.”

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