ROCK & GOALS Ainsworth raising decibels at Wycombe EXCLUSIVE

A CONGRATULATORY message on his 10 years at Wycombe from heavy metal gods Kiss in November. Another from former Sex Pistols founder Glen Matlock. prospect of reaching Championship is in sight.

If you think that the rock ’n rolling is all an image for Ainsworth, now the longest serving manager in the Football League after more than seven years in charge at the Chairboys, forget it. He believes it is what keeps him sane in the mad and pressured world of football.

Doors fan Ainsworth said: “I’ve always been a bit different. When people were into the rave scene in the the

Nineties, I was into Guns N’ Roses and Motley Crue.

“You don’t have to just follow the crowd. You can be who you are. I’ve stayed with the long hair and the image. It’s not an image – it’s me.

“Football can be a monster – whether as a player or a manager. Even for fans, it affects the mood so much and it should not do that. I have so many other things that are important to me.

“When I leave here every Monday, I go straight to rehearsals with the band and the only thing on my mind is what lyrics have I got to sing. I will never be that person who lets this take over.

“I’ve known friends who have gone into this job and could not sleep at night. You see them age. I don’t want to be that person.”

But, do not get the impression either that Ainsworth is not ambitious about his football. He said: “I am really proud of what we have done here atWycombe.

“Of course, I am ambitious. There have been offers to move on. But it has got to be right for me and my family. It’s not all about the money.

“I am really happy at Wycombe. I’m proud of what we have done here.

“Now, the prize is there for us, with 12 games left. Some clubs in this league need to get up. At Wycombe we don’t need it, but we’d love it.”