BARNES IS PLANNING A CASUALS RECOVERY
PAUL BARNES says he must aim to help bring the community together if he is to bring pride back to Corinthian-Casuals.
The 41-year-old has been named as the new man in charge at the King George’s Field following the departure this week of Andy Gray.
Gray, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace midfielder, took over the reins at Casuals following their relegation from Isthmian Premier Division last season but has failed to turn fortunes around this term with the famous Surrey club languishing second from bottom in the Step 4 South Central division.
Respected coach Barnes arrives at Tolworth after brief spells in charge of Dulwich Hamlet and Hastings United higher up the pyramid and believes Casuals – who operate on a zero playing budget – are in need of a little tough love.
“I am very honoured to be given the opportunity to lead Corinthian-Casuals FC, a club steeped in history and tradition, who play such a huge part in the community locally and much further afield,” said the UEFA A-licence coach, who has also managed the likes of Greenwich Borough, Staines Town, Redhill and Guildford City.
“After having a break from the game and giving myself time to reflect and make sure my next role was one that not only excited me, but also aligned with my own personal values, I feel that Corinthian-Casuals is exactly that.
“The beautiful game can be far from that at times and makes people question why it holds that tag still…but then just sometimes, things happen or opportunities arise to bring that sense of faith, and that is exactly what I see this being: a great opportunity to build something pure and not tainted by the things that cause people to question their love for the game.
“Brian [Adamson, chairman] and the committee have outlined the ethos that this club is built on, and I love that, even in a time where football is so competitive, the club is staying true to itself.
“We will work together, bring people both on and off the pitch closer. to unite and make sure we stay in this league. It will be a tough task, but I am confident that collectively we can achieve our aim, and call upon all the Casuals faithful to get behind the team and know that anything achieved or earned is always done as one. I am ready to get to work and give my all in leading the club.”
Meanwhile, Southern Premier Central strugglers
parted company with manager Steve Heath after Boxing Day’s 4-0 home defeat by AFC Sudbury extended their winless run at Step 3 to 18 matches.
And have wasted no time in making a change after asking Paul Moore to stand down as boss after eight months in charge.
The NPL West strugglers have turned to long-term Crewe Alexandra coach and Leek Town boss Neil Baker in a bid to turn around their fortunes.