TOMMY WRIGHT says he is determined to make the most of an “unexpected opportunity” after he was named Nuneaton Town’s new manager.
Wright, who was already at the club as a player-coach, replaced Kevin Wilson as Boro boss ahead of Saturday’s trip to FC United of Manchester, which they lost 3-0.
Wilson, the former Ilkeston boss, was offered the chance to remain at Nuneaton as director of football but turned down the opportunity.
His assistant Steve Chettle will, however, remain at Liberty Way to help assist Wright, whose first managerial job at Corby ended last month following a slow start to the season.
The 32-year-old former Leicester, Barnsley and Darlington striker, who is still registered as a player, has been tasked with guiding Nuneaton up the National League North with the club only sitting outside of the bottom three on goal difference.
Wright told the club’s website: “I wasn’t expecting to become the club’s new manager and although I’m proud and delighted, the way it has come about is unfortunate and tinged with sadness.
“I’ve been in the game long enough to know that football dishes out highs and lows and I’ve been involved in both. I’m good friends with Kevin.
“I was happy to be here as his player-coach and help him in any way I could. It’s been very tough to see him go, but I respect his reasons. He didn’t want the director of football role that was offered to him and told me he came here as a manager, and wanted to leave as a manager.
“He’s a good man who I admire very much. He has set up a great structure at the club and given me a platform to build on. Having Steve Chettle here gives us some continuity and our aim is to push the club up the league and do well in the FA Trophy, which we play in next weekend.
“I know Nuneaton fans want to see the team do well. I’m committed to making that happen and the work has already started.
“I won’t accept second best. They have to take responsibility once they cross the white line and put in an honest, hard-working performance. They have the ability and now they have to show it and get the club moving in the right direction again.
“This is a brilliant challenge for me and a top job in Non-League football. I’ve been given an unexpected opportunity and I intend to seize it with both hands.”
