Shropshire Star

Andy Pryce talks will be 'critical' – AFC Telford chief Rob Edwards

Boss Rob Edwards insists impending discussions with chairman Andy Pryce are ‘critical’ to AFC Telford United’s future success.

Published
Last updated
Andy Pryce

The duo are set to sit down to go over whether becoming a full-time outfit is a viable option for the Bucks.

A big step was taken towards that this past season as they trained four times a week - but not all the players could commit to the extra sessions.

Edwards now wants to go all out, and said: “It is critical now as everyone wants to know where they stand - players, staff, everyone.

“Andy and everyone have been really supportive throughout the season, they really have.

“When we’ve tried to push for things, they’ve really helped.

“We know what is needed to try to be successful in this league. Nobody wants another relegation battle at this level.

“We’ll see how things progress and see where we all stand from there.”

Telford finished the campaign 14th in National League North, with a run of five wins from their final eight games steering them to safety.

Edwards does not believe wholesale changes are required in order to be more competitive next campaign but, naturally, some players will be intent on moving on while a few will be keeping their options open.

“I keep going on about it, but I need to know where we’re at, really, as a club,” said Edwards.

“I need to be able to get that squad in place, to get that recruitment process sorted.

“It’ll be a busy period, a busy time, but a period that is obviously important for the club.

“These next couple of months can dictate, in particular, the first few months of next season.

“It’s really important we get the right bodies in. Some people, inevitably, will move on as well, and that’s down to us to sort out as soon as possible.”

Pryce also shares the view that going full-time would be of benefit, as he stated it was the plan to do so at a fans’ forum a few months ago.

National North champions Salford City became a full-time side last summer. Kidderminster Harriers and Harrogate Town - both in the play-offs - are too.

“I’ve got some strong views on what we need to do, and what I want to do,” added Edwards.

“Let’s see whether that is possible.”