Boreham Wood FC Chairman Danny Hunter has been chatting to BWFC programme editor and website contributor John Gill. Hunter confirmed that Ian Allinson is now putting the finishing touches to his squad, that will begin the clubs second season in the Conference South on August 13th.
‘The Wood’ Chairman said “I’ve spoken to the Gaffer during pre-season and with the players he’s signed our aim is to progress the club into the top half of the table and really establish ourselves on and off the field at this level. I believe we are capable of competing but we must ensure our ambitions are realistic and top half is realistic.” He concluded.
Boreham Wood manager, Ian Allinson armed with an improved budget; this season has signed a clutch of quality players that include Michael Jordan, Osei Sankofa, James Smith and Daryl McMahon from Farnborough… Charlie O’Loughlin from Solihull Moors… Ollie Palmer (Long term loan) and Sam Hurrell from Woking… Ali Chaaban re-signed from Chelmsford City… Inih Effiong brought back from St Albans City and finally Luke Wilkinson on a long term loan from Dagenham and Redbridge.”
Allinson said “I’ve been busy and brought in 10 players over the pre-season to improve us. Four of them have been with me before, so they know what my expectations will be and they must all show me a desire to collectively succeed.”
Allinson added “After last season I looked at the overall age in our squad. I’ve since run the rule over a number of other players as well this summer. I decided unfortunately a number of players for one reason or another had to be released. I needed to ensure this season, that our attitude will be right, that we got our playing age down and that we get our fitness levels up.”
“With all clubs at our level, you need experience and I’ve got that in abundance with 10 of my squad at good ages of 23 to 28 years old. However I’ve also got another ten hungry younger players to enhance that group.”
Allinson went on “I believe collectively our squad will be fit and we will have energy, not only in matches but in training as well. We all want to progress and improve, so I’m now just looking to bring in one more significant marquee signing in a playing/coaching capacity and I’m confident I can do that… Our Chairman has been hugely supportive of myself and what I want to do and the season thank goodness is nearly upon us.”
Allinson also explained why he has again delved into the long term loan market… With the signings of centre forward Ollie Palmer from Woking and centre half Luke Wilkinson from Dagenham and Redbridge.
He said “In Ollie and Luke I’ve signed two talented 6’ 3” 20 year olds, who will be with us until January. They are big, strong and talented; they will have a physical presence that we’re going to need at times this season.” Allinson concluded.
