DARREN BYFIELD says he understands the frustration of Redditch United’s fans at the team’s winless run – because he is more disappointed than anyone.
Byfield is already planning for next season but he stressed he will not allow the final three months of his debut managerial campaign to fade into obscurity.
He wants his team to set down a marker, to provide a platform for next term and an eight-match winless run is simply not good enough.
“We need to do better and everybody accepts that,” said Byfield.
“I’m certainly not happy and the frustrating thing is that I know what is needed.
“We know where we need to improve and a number of targets have said they will join us next season.
“The planning is already being done but I’m not going to write off this season. We’ve got to focus on the here and now and get back to winning ways.”
The Reds slipped to a sixth defeat in a row at Hayes & Yeading last weekend, losing 2-1 despite Luke Keen ending the team four-match goalless run, and they will be desperate to for victory tomorrow (Saturday) when relegation-battling Cambridge City Town visit the Valley Stadium.
“On Saturday, we need to go out and get a win. We need to stop the rot and put in a performance for the fans.
“They travel to watch us, they pay their hard-earned money to support us week in, week out and I can understand they feel frustrated with me and the team. It’s their club.
“They are entitled to say what they want.
“I feel the same going to watch Arsenal, the team I’ve supported since I was a boy.
“I love to win, I don’t like losing but I’m loving every minute of being Redditch United manager.
“It’s the career path I’ve chosen and I’ll be stronger for this experience.
“I’m working hard and I’ll keep working hard to give the fans the successful team we all want.”
The Reds have added to their squad by signing experienced striker Luke Rodgers from Solihull Moors but having started at Hayes, he has to wait for his home debut because he is unavailable.
Winger Dior Angus (rib) and Duane Courtney (knee) will both face fitness checks but are expected to be fit to face Cambridge.