Housham confirmed as Blues boss

A DELIGHTED Steve Housham said becoming Gainsborough Trinity manager was ‘one of his proudest moments’ in football.

The former Brigg boss was confirmed as boss by chairman Peter Swann yesterday, and will be in charge of the team until the end of the season.

So far Housham has guided the Blues to five wins in five since taking over from Brian Little, who was sacked in August.

The club are now sitting pretty in the play-off places in Blue Square Bet North after Saturday’s 4-2 success over Bishop’s Stortford.

Housham told the Standard: “It’s a massive boost for me, one of the proudest days of my footballing career especially as manager and to be manager of my local team where I’ve lived all my life is something to be proud of.”

“Nothing changes when I first took over as a caretaker manager I did it professionally as I would if I was first-team manager and that will continue.”

“The names changed now it’s a manager, but to me I’ll be the same and I’ll be demanding hard work off the players like we have been doing.”

Chairman Swann broke the news on the supporters’ message board and cited the stability Housham has brought to the team as they chase their sixth straight win at Hyde on Saturday.

In his statement, Swann reiterated his desire to remain involved with Housham: “I will still be working closely with him but Steve is at the helm.”

“It won’t be all roses this season and I want the fans to be patient if it starts to wobble. One thing is certain, you will get 100 per cent from him and that is all we can ask.”

And Housham believes his appointment may also have a positive impact on the players who are now aware he is a permanent fixture until at least the end of the season.

He added: “It will probably settle them down; some players go into some sessions with a bit of uncertainty wondering what’s happening.”

“The lads have worked hard for me anyway and I’m sure that will continue when we have a good chat at training tomorrow and get down to business looking forward to the Saturday game.”

The new Trinity chief remained focused on the upcoming games setting his immediate sights on a promotion push rather than earning an extended deal at the end of the campaign.

He said: “I’ll take each game as it comes and hopefully progress from there and who knows what will happen.”

“I said to the players if you work hard you will get your rewards at the end of the season and I’m sure if I do well hopefully I’ll get my rewards at the end of the season.”

“I want to create history and be the first person to get Gainsborough Trinity Football Club promoted.”