Whitstable Town FC

Today's game is going to be a very tough encounter against opponents just one place above us in the league. Victory for us is vital if we are to start climbing up the table. Success is never handed to you on a plate, however, you have to earn it. This comes only with plenty of hard work, blood, sweat and the will to win and want it more than your opponents. In saying that, I feel sure that if the players and the backroom staff continue to show the same work ethic, the same commitment and professionalism that they have shown me so far in my very short managerial career that this success is only just around the corner.

The player's know what I expect from them and know that I will select what I think is my strongest squad each week, and from that the starting eleven that I feel will win us the match. Whether an individual is selected or not will be down to him. If he's doing the business on the pitch better than the next man then he will keep his shirt, because I will pick the best 11. I've made four new signings over the past couple of weeks and know that they will be very good additions to the team. Terry Ratchford is a central defender signed from Dartford who has just come back from illness and is very nearly back to full fitness. He has been outstanding in the last couple of reserve team matches and I can't wait to see the big man in a first team shirt. Wayne Barrett is a very experienced midfielder signed from today?s opponents and has already shown what a good player he is.

I've also signed two former Herne Bay players, midfielder Alex Hossick and defender Rob Summers. Both need to gain a bit of match fitness before they start fighting for a starting shirt. Alex played for the reserves last Saturday in their win at Maidstone and had a good game, while Rob made a steady debut in last Saturday's friendly, signing straight after the game.

 These four signings will add strength, quality and experience to the existing - already strong - squad, and I'm sure that I will have a few selection headaches over the future months. But it's a challenge that I'm ready for.

 Marc...