(Picture: Dean Barker. Credit: Wingate & Finchley)
By Matt Badcock
Dean Barker wants to bring the good times back to Northwood.
The former Cockfosters boss has been on Keith Rowland’s Wingate & Finchley staff this season but has taken up the challenge at the Isthmian League South Central outfit.
And he’s hoping they can get the community coming through the turnstiles.
“I know Northwood have struggled the last few years so it’s maybe about rebuilding a little bit and trying to get the community involved to support the club,” Barker said.
“Northwood have got a really good history in Non-League football and done well over the years so it would be nice if we can stabilise a little bit and then see what happens.
“My phone hasn’t stopped ringing since I was appointed. We’ve got to get the friendlies in, speak to players from last year and contact new players – it’s the busiest time of the year.
“We’ll probably start pre-season at the start of July so it’s about getting everything ready for that.”
Barker, 34, had a successful two years in charge at Spartan South Midlands side Cockfosters before moving to Wingate where he was also U23s manager, where his side won their title.
And he says he’s learned a lot from Rowland and his assistant Richie Graham.
“Keith and Ritchie both played in the Premier League so it’s been good to learn from them,” Barker said. “Keith has been fantastic with me, gave me the opportunity to work with him. I had success at Cockfosters and then with Wingate where the U23s won the league so fingers crossed that can continue.
“I know it’s not always going to be like that but in the three years I’ve been managing it has gone well. I’m really looking forward to the challenge at Northwood. I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”
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