Micky's Pembrokeshire
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Leighton James joins the Bluebirds
There was an air of anticipation as Haverfordwest County held a midweek floodlit practice match at the Conygar Bridge Meadow because Leighton James, the Bluebirds’ new Director of Football was in attendance for his first look at the players involved at the club.
Strong impact
He certainly made a strong impact because he was soon stepping in to stop the action to point out things that he wanted changing, and it was interesting to see the way that the players responded immediately.
Club chairman Rob Summons said during the session,
“We are determined to see that the club does well and decided that we needed some experience to add to the excellent coaching know-how of our managerial team and there is no doubt that Leighton James has that in abundance after so many years at the top level of the game.”
Coaches welcome
It was a view supported by Micky Ellis the team manager and coach Wayne Jones.
“I have been at this club for many years,” said Ellis, “and always believed that it is the team that counts and we now have a stronger managerial team that can only benefit the players and, ultimately, our brilliant supporters.”
Jones told us,
“I am really looking forward to working with Leighton because he brings something to the table that can provide the boost we need. I am sure the players will respond to his guidance.”
Experience galore
There is no doubt that James has a wealth of experience as a player with Burnley, Derby County, QPR, Swansea City, Sunderland, Bury and Newport County which saw him play 645 games and score 124 goals, plus a splendid 54 times for Wales and another ten goals.
He coached Bradford City and was manager of Gainsborough Trinity, Morecambe and Llanelli, plus Welsh League clubs Garden Village and Aberaman Athletic, and has always been regarded as a larger than life character in the game who was also a pundit with BBC Radio and Real Radio.
PHOTOS:
Leighton James at the Bluebirds' Office.
Soon involved - on the pitch giving advice.
Not afraid to express his views.
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