AFC Telford coach Martin Prentice is looking to earn respect

UEFA A Licence coach Prentice has been recruited to work alongside boss Gavin Cowan and assistant Phil Trainer after five years at Stafford Rangers.

He has also worked at Tamworth, Hucknall Town and Wolves’ academy.

“I’m thrilled to bits to be making the step up again,” said Prentice

“Gav asked me a lot of questions. He was coach here last year under Rob Edwards so he had the tactics board out, going over things.

“He reminds me a lot of myself in that way. He’s a tactician, very thorough and detailed with the way he wants the team to play so I’m really excited to be here and be a part of things.

“It’s all new faces for me. I’ve seen a lot of them play, but they’re all new to me – and that’s the exciting part.

“That’s what I’m looking forward to, getting to know all the players and earning their respect.”

Cowan served in the role of first-team coach at Telford, under Edwards and Rob Smith before that, before being unveiled as boss last month. Prentice will be heavily involved in training and team selection.

“I’ll have a massive input in the training schedule. Me, Gav and Phil will all work together, you have to trust each other,” he said.

“Gav has also said I’ll have a big input in team selection and tactics too.

“I’m really looking forward to that, having a part to play on matchdays too.”

Prentice had been offered the opportunity to stay at Rangers by their boss Steve Burr – who has also managed Kidderminster Harriers, Chester and Southport.

On his time at the Evo-Stik Northern Premier side, Prentice added: “I had a great time there.

“Steve Burr wanted me to stay on but after five years, I felt it was time for a new challenge.

“It was sad to leave Stafford but this opportunity to work at Telford was too good to turn down. I can’t wait to get started.”