Blues secure duo on long contracts

By David Watters

Leiston manager Glenn Driver and head coach Tony Kinsella have been rewarded with new three-and-a-half year contracts for their success at the Ryman Premier promotion chasers.

The duo, who guided Leiston reserves to a sixth-placed finish in the Eastern Counties League last season before taking over the Blues hot-seat from Richard Wilkins in May, haven’t looked back since with their side currently fourth in the Ryman League's top flight and looking to record a best-ever finish at Step 3, if not promotion.

Gates are also up thanks to the attractive, free-flowing football on offer at Victory Road and long runs in national cup competitions and Blues chairman Andy Crisp has told fans securing the pair can only bring more stability while offering them a real chance to instill their philosophy at all levels of the club.

Pictured with Driver, Kinsella and members of the Suffolk club's board this week ahead of their trip to Merstham on Saturday, he told the Blues website: “To secure the services of Glenn and Tony is fantastic news for the club.

"As chairman it’s been a little unfortunate that over the last few seasons we have had quite a few managerial changes, so with these agreements now signed it brings some stability to the club which of course is very important when discussing things such as three to five-year plans and contracts.

“Glenn and Tony have a clear vision in terms of a footballing structure they want for this club and their commitment to us will include working with the youth and reserve teams, not just the first team.”

Driver said: “To say I’m happy about extending my stay here is a understatement. This club is in my heart and I’m grateful that the chairman and the Board feel they can put their trust in myself and Tony for another three-and-a-half years.

“We are building for the future, signing young players who we feel we can develop. It's not just about a first team at this club any longer is about Leiston Football Club as a whole."

"For a club of this size to offer us this deal proves we are doing something right. We have a long way to go and a lot of work to do to achieve our goals but it's been a fantastic first season in charge at this level.

"The crowds are getting bigger and our supporters are absolutely fantastic, they want to see a brand of football that excites them."

He added: "We know there will be tough times along the way but if we stick together I'm sure the future at this club is bright. Personally, I will continue to work as hard I can to build a club we can all be proud of."

Image courtesy of www.leistonfc.co.uk

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