BOSS IS WRIGHT FOR STEP UP, SAYS SKIPPER
JUSTIN EDINBURGH takes his Gillingham team to former club Tottenham in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night – and captain Josh Wright reckons he can expect plenty more high-profile matches in future.
Left-back Edinburgh spent a decade with the North London giants but has had to work his way up from the bottom to reach League One.
His managerial career has taken in spells at Billericay Town, Fisher Athletic, Grays Athletic, Rushden & Diamonds, Newport County and, since February 2015, Gillingham.
After 13 years as a manager, the 46-year-old is now in the third tier, but skipper Wright believes there is no reason why he can’t go a lot higher and meet the likes of Spurs on a regular basis.
Wright said: “He can go all the way, without a doubt – he’s got everything you need.
“He’s spot-on with how he says things at the right time. He gets the best out of players and players want to play for him.
“It’s very enjoyable to play under him, but he can be strict and stern as well. He’s always on at you to perform in training and games.”
After stunning Premier League side Watford at Vicarage Road in the second round, the Gills are seeking another topflight scalp and Wright is expecting a searching examination.
“No matter who Spurs play, it will be a strong team,” said the 26-year-old. “I would be happy to play against their first team as it would be a great test for us, but we are going to have to be right at it.” Midfielder Wright can count on the support of older brother Mark, the former England Non-League international and once the star of The Only Way is Essex.
“He’s already bought his ticket and he’ll be in there with the Gills fans,” he said. “He comes to most of the home games and follows me whenever he can.
“He’s got his own team with his friends and plays in charity games.
“He scored a great goal for England in the Soccer Aid game at Old Trafford.
“We were all there to support him. He loves his football.”