New Sunderland RCA boss Riley keen to build on Swales’ work
Steve Riley has praised his predecessor Martin Swales after being named as new manager of Ebac Northern League Division One club Sunderland RCA.
Swales ended his sevenyear stay at Sunderland LGV Park last month after helping establish the club in the Northern League’s top tier and secured consecutive top-five finishes in 2018 and 2019.
The former Ryhope CW boss also helped RCA reach the FA Cup second qualifying round for the first time and oversaw two runs to the last 16 of the FA Vase on two occasions.
Riley was officially confirmed as successor to Swales last week and the former Bishop Auckland manager has targeted progress in both the league and cups as he prepares for his first season in charge.
He told The Echo: “Martin established the club in Division One and he built a top side that made inroads into the top five of the division.
“He did a fantastic job during his time at the club and that is something I want to carry on.
“It’s been a tough couple of years, but hopefully we are passed that now.
“We want to build on Martin’s work by making progress in the Vase, the cups and we want to make sure we are pushing back towards the top end of the
league table.”
Since his appointment was confirmed, Riley has held discussions with a number of the RCA squad as he assesses his options
ahead of a return to pre-season training next month.
He revealed he has already made contact with a number of possible new signings as he looks to put
his own stamp on the club.
“We’ve held talks with some players in the squad, and we are aware some may step away for family reasons,” he explained.
“We want to add to the squad, as any manager does when he gets a new job.
“I have players in mind, I have made contact with some possible signings and we are talking.
“But, first and foremost, we need to see what we have in the current squad before we decide where and when we can improve.”