MANAGEMENT can be a lonely place — as Jody Banim is finding out. In sole charge of Ashton United since Will Haining stood down at the end of last season, he’s had (quote) a bit of a bumpy ride.
Overall it’s been a satisfying time, but the challenges have come thick and fast. Wide-man Ryan Crowther has been ruled out for the season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Tom Eckersley faces six weeks on the sidelines with a torn hamstring, and Rick Smith misses a month because of a medial ligament strain.
And a shoulder knock could mean that Alex Johnson is ruled out of tomorrow’s opening Evo-stik NPL premier division fixture at Hednesford Town.
In a rare stroke of good luck, Matt Chadwick’s ankle injury, although nasty, has been one of severe bruising rather than ligament damage. He’s in contention for the trip to Hednesford with only his match fitness in question.
“I’m enjoying being the only one in charge but I have missed Will. He had bags of experience,” admitted Banim.
“Luckily, I’ve got a great backroom team in Simon Woodford, Damian Crossley and my new goalkeeping coach Kieran Bentley. The three of them have been brilliant during pre-season and they’ve put in just as much work as I have.
“Will’s always on the end of a phone if I need him. He’s been to a couple of the friendlies and mentioned a couple of players who might potentially be available. I’m sure he’ll be down to more games during the season.
“The injuries are something I’ve got used to since I started managing Ashton. You’ve just got to get on with it. We’ve got a bigger squad now and we’ll have to start using it.”
Unexpected injuries have forced Banim to make more signings than he may have planned. Over the last week alone he has brought in defenders Max Cartwright (Stockport) and Lanre Olapade (New Mills), midfielder Nicky Platt (Trafford) and striker Oscar Durnin (Nantwich).
Two signings that have particularly pleased him are Scunthorpe striker Jack Dyche, who made a huge impression while on loan last season, and highly experienced goalkeeper Dave Carnell.
“Jack did so well last year,” said Banim. “If I’m being honest, I really didn’t think we’d be able to get him but after what happened to Ryan Crowther, and Matty Chadwick’s injury, we really pushed for him and I’m glad to say Scunthorpe trust us.
“Hopefully he’ll hit the ground running like he did last year and start scoring straight away. He has an aggressive style of play and brings his own threat, and of course he scores goals.
“Dave Carnell is a calming influence. He’s a great shot-stopper, decent with his feet, and a good talker. When it comes to non-league he’s been there and done it. For me there’s nobody better than him in the North West.”
Nicky Platt has been training with the Robins most of the summer with a view to signing. Max Cartwright, whom Banim describes as a big addition, was first approached at the end of last season but wanted time to consider. He is also in contention to play tomorrow.
Tough as it might be, Banim’s plan is to fight for the league championship for as long as it is mathematically possible. However, he sees plenty of strong opponents with money to spend.
He believes Altrincham have made good signings and expects Stalybridge Celtic and Warrington Town to challenge. Promoted Farsley Celtic are known to have resources and like many of his fellow managers views Shaw Lane as a threat. Stourbridge and Workington also come into the equation.
“In general I’m confident but pre-season has been a bit of a bumpy ride. We took a thumping at Hyde United last week but in a masochistic kind of way I think that might have been good for us. It was better for it to happen then rather than tomorrow,” explained Banim.
“I’ve sat the lads down and explained my objectives for the season. They know what’s expected of them.
“It’s not ideal that we’ve had to make so many signings so late but we’ve got some good footballers. We’ve just got to bed them in. I think we’re going to be okay.”