After a long career as a player that has spanned two decades, Darryl Knights is relishing his first opportunity in management having been placed in charge of Pitching In Southern League Premier Central outfit, Stourbridge, until the end of the season.
The 35 year-old has combined a playing role at the Glassboys with an Academy coaching position since 2022 and has now been asked to step up to replace Leon Broadhurst at the helm.
Knights oversaw a return to winning ways on Monday with a 1-0 triumph at Redditch United and he hopes that it can lead to a positive end to what has been a season of underachievement for the West Midlands side.
“I really want to commit to this,” said the former Ipswich Town youngster. “I have enjoyed my coaching role with the Academy team; it has opened my eyes to what it is like to be a coach having spent so many years as a player.
“I see my future in coaching or management, so this is the next step. I’ve had 20 years of playing and I think this is the natural progression.
“It’s the next best thrill after playing, seeing the buzz of what the players can do with what you implement on the training pitch.
“I have a real passion and drive to be the best I can be as a coach and now I have the chance to show what I can do over these final games, to stamp my authority and my coaching philosophy on the team.”
The next challenge for Knights comes in the shape of promotion-seeking Mickleover on Saturday.
IMAGE: Focus Dunn Photography
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