New Truro City boss outlines his plans for the future (West Briton)

By Rhod Mitchell

NEW Truro City manager Steve Massey says he is looking forward to his third spell in charge at Treyew Road.

And Massey, who became the club’s Head of Football part way through last season, has announced that, as expected, two more former City favourites Glynn Hooper and Graeme Kirkup would be returning to the club as part of his management team.

Massey said he was also close to appointing a new fitness, strength and conditioning coach to complete his backroom staff.

“I am really looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “It seemed to be a natural progression.”
“It is a huge commitment, but it is the dressing room where I really come alive and have more to offer.”

Now he has the daunting task of assembling a squad capable of challenging for honours in the 46-game Southern League premier division next season, providing the Football Conference approve the club’s relegation to that league following the successful CVA application earlier this week.

That should hopefully be no more than a formality after fears that Truro might have to drop down three levels to the Western League, if their financial affairs had not been sorted out.

Massey intends to put together a largely “young and hungry” squad.

“I want players with pace, desire and enthusiasm that supporters will enjoy watching. We will be going out to win every game,” he said.

As well as Ash and Broad staying on, former Plymouth Argyle keeper Ollie Chenoweth, who had a loan spell at City last season, has agreed to return after being released by Argyle.

Talented young midfielder Cody Cooke is also staying on and offers have been made to Les Afful, who played every legue game last season, and young defender Paul Kendall.

Massey is also hoping that Jordan Copp will stay on after joining the club towards the end of last season and that young Truro-based striker Jared Sims will join the City revolution after being released by Plymouth Argyle.

He has also been talking to a host of other players as he tries to rebuild the squad after the departure of a clutch of last season’s players.

“It is a difficult time for managers at this time of the season and I will be happier when I know what I have got,” added Massey.

City return to pre-season training on June 27 and play Crewe Alexandra in a friendly on Friday July 5 and have also matches against Oxford United and Plymouth Argyle.