Nigel Adkins has spoken of the responsibility he has, after being appointed Tranmere Rovers manager on a permanent basis.
The 58-year-old signed a contract until the end of the 2025/26 season following an interim spell in charge of the team.
Rovers travel to Stevenage in the first round proper of the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday, 4 November (3pm kick-off).
ON BECOMING PERMANENT MANAGER:
“I’m very proud, honoured and privileged, but very aware of the responsibility that I’ve now got. We’ve got to improve. We’ve got to stick together. We’ve got to have unity, work hard and be intense in everything we do. Our mindset is to go and win the next game. I like to think me being appointed provides clarity and certainty. We can make sure the culture and environment are right. Give the players every chance to work hard and perform to their maximum, with the common cause that is Tranmere Rovers Football Club.”
ON THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FA CUP:
“As a youngster growing up, the FA Cup Final was the highlight of the season. The build-up was great. When you see teams do well, you go in the garden and replicate them. As a manager and player, you try and do everything you can to have a successful cup run. That’s what supporters and players want. That’s our focus at the weekend.”
ON STEVENAGE:
“We’re under no illusions. They’re doing really well under Steve Evans. What we’ve watched of them, they’ve used three or four different formations. The principles are there. You have to run. You have to compete. They’re big, strong and athletic. It’s going to be a competitive game. On any given day, anyone can win. We’re up against it, we’re well aware of that. However, it’s one game we’re looking forward to. It’s the beauty and magic of the FA Cup.”
ON TEAM NEWS:
“Luke Norris will figure at the weekend. Joe Starbuck will be out for a while. He’s got a nasty ankle injury. Reece McAlear will be integrated into training next week. Jake Leake will step up his training, probably the Wigan game he’ll be involved in. Josh Hawkes got injured against Doncaster. He came off and missed a game, but we’ll make a judgement call on him. Harvey Saunders is suspended.”
Image: TRFC
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