Tomkinson’s Thoughts Ahead of Wilmslow Albion

Prior to Wilmslow Albion’s visit to the Seashells Trust Academy, we asked Central manager Chris Tomkinson for his thoughts on his side’s start to the season, the game ahead and the events occurring in the wider world.

“Firstly, I’d like to acknowledge the very sad news of the Queen’s passing. To be the longest reigning monarch in British history is an amazing feat. She had become the permanent figurehead of the nation around the world - as for multiple generations, including my own, she was the only head of state we had known.”

“Therefore, I think it is understandable that British football postponed fixtures last weekend to pay its respects to what is a huge moment in the nation’s history. Hopefully with the return of football this coming weekend, the game will have its opportunity to properly honour Queen Elizabeth II.”

“In terms of football, we have had a very strong start to the season so far after our promotion from Division Two. All of the new additions to the squad have hit the ground running and have impressed me as they have added a huge amount to the team in terms of ability and character. They’ve settled in well and have made us a lot stronger.”

“The team have had a great start to the season and have picked up some brilliant results from a tough opening set of games. We know what we have been doing well, as well as what we have to adapt going forward, and I am extremely confident that we can continue our run of form as long as the lads live up to the high standards which they have set themselves.”

“The next couple of months will be challenging with the weather changing and more tough fixtures coming, but we have to keep our positive form going throughout the season and learn from any poor performances - like the one against Avro a few weeks ago. As long as the boys keep working hard and showing their fantastic character then I have no doubt that we can maintain this momentum.”

“We have obviously had a week off from football after the Queen’s passing and whilst its always disappointing to not play football, for whatever reason, it was an understandable decision from the Football Association. I don’t think that the enforced break will slow our momentum, but it may be beneficiary for the las to rest and recuperate after a tough start to the season and many intense training sessions. I’m sure that they will demonstrate their quality and consistency again against Wilmslow Albion this weekend.”

“We have already played Wilmslow Albion this season, so we know their quality. It was a tight, competitive game from which we eventually emerged the 3-2 winners, but I know they will be even more prepared for us now. We will have to defend a lot better than last time, as we conceded far too many easy chances and weren’t able to control the game. Will a full fit and rested squad, other than Paul Shalobi who is still recovering from his ACL surgery, we should be up to the challenge. They made it tough for us at Oakwood Farm, but I’m confident that we can play our usual game on our own turf.”

Manchester Central face Wilmslow Albion at the Seashells Trust Academy at 3:00 PM on Saturday 17th of September.