Caretaker manager Tim Cole has spoken of his pride at getting the chance to manage Holbeach United as the club’s bid to appoint a new boss continues to gather pace.
Cole and fellow Holbeach stalwart Adam Jackson took joint charge of the Tigers in last Saturday’s 2-0 victory at Harborough Town – and could yet get the chance to manage the team at Carter’s Park this weekend.
It is understood that the Future Lions UCL Premier Division side have spoken to three potential candidates as they look to replace the popular Seb Hayes, who stepped down as boss last week.
A new supremo could be in place before Saturday’s home date with Wellingborough Town (3pm), but Cole – who insists he’s not qualified enough to be in the running for the role – is more than happy to help out in the meantime.
Cole said: “It was nice for Adam and I to take charge of a UCL Premier Division game – we’re happy to help as long as we’re needed.
“But I don’t think either of us feel like we’re experienced enough or ready to be in the frame for the role at this stage.
“Maybe in a few years, but it’s not something I feel ready for and Adam is obviously still a vital part of the team.
“I know that the club have spoken to a few people and want to bring in a manager in that will work with the Reserves and under-18s like Seb was doing.
“Obviously it’d be a proud moment for both Adam and I if we get to manage a game at Carter’s Park this Saturday, but at this point we’re just waiting to see how the week pans out.”
Should Cole and Jackson still be in charge at the weekend, the former admits that it’ll be a tricky test for the fourth-placed Tigers.
Although the Tigers earned a 2-1 victory over the Doughboys in the last eight of the League Cup last month, they did lose the league reverse at the Dog and Duck in November – a result that saw a then Hayes-managed Holbeach beaten for the first time in 12 games.
“Wellingborough are a side we need to respect,” added Cole. “They got a good 5-0 victory over Sleaford last week and ended our unbeaten run back in November.
“We did beat them in the cup, though. We have a lot of respect for them, but we’ll be telling the lads to focus on their own game. We’re a good side and it’s important that we remember that.”
With defender Jamie Stevens (hip) suffering through injury, he’s again expected to help out Cole on the bench with Jackson likely to start in midfield.
Key striker Josh Ford returns from suspension, but Danny Barker (holiday) and Luke Avis (Achilles) are both likely to be unavailable.
Holbeach are also in Lincs FA Senior Trophy semi-final action against Deeping Rangers on Wednesday (7.45pm). Holders Holbeach have already lost three times against the Clarets this season.
