After a long and stellar playing career that spanned over two decades and included almost 400 Football League appearances, Kelvin Langmead has this month accepted his first managerial role here in the Southern League.
It has seen him return to Banbury United, where he was part of their Pitching In Southern League Premier Central title triumph of 2021/22 during a successful period for the club.
Now the 40 year-old is looking to enjoy similar success in the dug-out as he did on the pitch.
“The opportunity to come back here, where I enjoyed some of the best times of my career, was too good to resist,” he told his club’s media. “It all happened very quickly; one minute I was away on holiday sipping a cool beer by the pool and then 48 hours later I was here as manager and planning for the season ahead!
“I’ve taken something from all of the managers and coaches that I have worked under, but I will create my own style and be true to myself. In football, as in life, you are always learning; I was uncomplicated as a player and I will be uncomplicated as a manager.
“This is super exciting; when an opportunity such as this comes knocking, you have to jump in and take it.
“I believe that I can make an impact here. It’s a role that ticks all of the boxes. Football is a simple game; I want my team to leave everything out there in our attempt to win football matches.
“We’ll be hard-working and play fast tempo football. Pre-season is going to be tough on the players because I want us to be fit and fighting in readiness for the first League game.
“I know how amazing this place can be and I am determined to bring the best out of the club. We’ve got to be realistic, of course, and look at where we are in what will be a competitive League.
“I am here to win games of football. Targets will remain within the walls of the dressing room, suffice to say that I want to create a successful team, one that people want to come along and watch.
“Bit-by-bit we’re getting there and we’re looking forward to taking on the challenge ahead.”
IMAGE: Banbury United FC
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