Summertime Blues (and Reds)

The close season period could be very interesting for the principle three clubs followed by That'll Be The Day. In effect, at the close of play on Saturday, 3rd May two of the three clubs were manager-less. As the clubs go about their summer-time business, managers, player movements I will use this post to keep abreast of the news.

Thursday, 8th May: But before tomorrow comes there is a puff of white smoke over Longmead and the new Tonbridge manager is announced as Steve McKimm with Barry Moore as his assistant. More here ... New Tonbridge manager.

Thursday, 8th May: When I've been asked about who stays and who goes, my answer has been get Stuart Nelson signed up pretty damned quick. Peter Taylor obviously reads the blog and the Gills' custodian has signed a new two year deal. Oh, what influence I have!! Meanwhile over at Tonbridge it appears that we are getting very close to seeing the puff of white smoke over Longmead. Eight candidates have been interviewed and Steve Churcher has said it was a difficult decision and one he was glad not to have to make alone. One with Tonbridge background, Ben Judge, and someone from outside of the club appear front-runners. Perhaps tomorrow ...

Wednesday, 7th May: First pre-season friendly announced, I'll try to keep the list updated on this dateline.
Gillingham:
Saturday, 26th July Ipswich Town (h) TBC

Tunbridge Wells
Saturday, 19th July Crowborough (h) 15:00
Saturday, 26th July Ramsgate (h) 15:00


Tuesday, 6th May: Peter Taylor begins his reshuffle at Gillingham by telling Assistant Manager John Schofield and Goalkeeping Coach Carl Muggleton that there will not be a contract renewal for either of them.

Monday, 5th May: My personal choice, and one of the early favourites for the Tonbridge job, Tony Russell, rules himself out by signing on for another season at VCD.

And no sooner said, the first news comes from the Player of the Year Presentation at Gillingham.

Saturday, 3rd May: At the Player of the Year Presentation, Gillingham chairman Paul Scally announced that agreement had been made with Peter Taylor to continue as manager of the club with a two year contract. It was also announced that the club's principle sponsor, MEMS would continue for the next four years. The player of the year was awarded to Stuart Nelson.