Dale Player caught up with Manager Keith Hill earlier in the week to get his thoughts on his latest recruits and on his plans for further recruitment during the summer.
Hill has already secured the services of Joe Bunney, Bastien Hery, Scott Hogan and Peter Vincenti. Bunney, Hery and Hogan have yet to cut their teeth in the Football League and while Hill has already commented that he is excited by what they can offer next season, he also says he is looking to recruit experience.
“I can’t spend all my budget on uncut diamonds,” said Hill. “I need players who are capable and understand League Two football. Yes we’re going to create a football factory almost, but we’ve also got to have the skills and potential as a team to make an impact on young players’ careers. We will give the young players time on the pitch but we also have to recruit players who have a certain standing in and understanding of League Two football. I will be recruiting those type of players.”
Hill has entered into negotiations regarding new deals with eight players who are out of contract and he says now is a time for reflection for the players: “They’ll reflect and they’ll probably seek alternatives with respect to seeing if there are any alternative clubs out there but they have a home here.
“I sensed a little bit of disappointment from a few of the players with respect to the offers of contracts that we’ve made, but they’ll sort it out in their own mind. If those players decide not to sign there’s a wealth of other players available. Yes, I’m looking forward to the prospect of working with those players but also alternative players as well.
“It will be very successful next season; that’s what we are planning for. Our aim is to recruit the right calibre of player with the right attitude and application and it is going to be enjoyable for the players. Sometimes they’ve got to cement down a home and those players will find a home here. There’s certain players that I want to retain and I’ll do everything I can to retain them but I won’t break the bank. It is important that people understand that I can’t put the financial future of this Football Club at risk.”
A full interview with Hilly is on Dale Player now.