Tucker wants turbulent summer to be put aside

Dan Simmonds (right) has dual-signed with Wick

Tucker, who came back to the club last season as joint manager, was appointed first-team boss following Richard Towers’ departure.

That change was just one of several over what has been a tough close season for everyone involved at Wick.

Following two seasons, Wick decided to drop their merger with Barnham, while chairman Peter Whittle has also stepped down.

Despite those changes, Tucker believes his side have enough to turn their focus to on-the-field matters as they prepare for a second season in the Southern Combination League Premier Division.

He said: “It’s not been an ideal summer off-the-field but on it things have gone well.

“This has been one of my best pre-seasons, I’ve brought a squad together of young, hungry players wanting to prove a point.

“We can’t compete with some of the budgets in this league at present but I can offer first-team football in this league.”

Tucker admits no pressure has been placed on him with survival the aim but he wants his side to flourish this season.

He added: “I’ve got several young players but they’ve got a good deal of experience.

“Everyone I’ve brought in has fitted in really well and wants to do well.

“A lot of these guys weren’t given a chance where they were before, so they want to come in, do well and prove they are capable at this level.”

Tucker’s second stint back as manager starts on Saturday with a trip to Chessington & Hook in a extra-preliminary round FA Cup encounter.

Tucker sees this as a perfect chance to begin the new season on a positive note, while also bagging some much needed finance for the club.

He said: “Everyone wants to progress in the FA Cup and we are no different.

“It would be an ideal way to start off and good for the club as well.

“A lot of work has gone in over the summer at Wick, so to win this and get to the next round, while also raising some funds would be the perfect start for me.

“It’s a little way to travel but we’ll hope to win it.”

In: Rob Hutchings (Littlehampton), Nathan Ediker, Lee Bradshaw, Dale Hayes, Joe Gromett, Sam Garnett, Rob Wimble, Charlie Williamson (all Pagham), Dan Simmonds (dual-signed with Petersfield Town).

Out: Ben Gray (Littlehampton), Scott Towers, Danny Towers,

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