New Holbeach United manager Gary Frost has made no less than six new signings as he bids to revamp the club’s fortunes.
Frost, who was appointed as Tigers chief just over a week ago, has snapped up strikers James Tricks and Curtis Revell, as well as young keeper Jake Frestle and utility man Luke Chester.
And, in a bid to bring more UCL experience to the Carter’s Park fold, has also brought in club legend Matt Warfield and former Pinchbeck United player/boss Ian Dunn – with the latter serving as player/coach.
Frost has managed to convince Stacy Cartwright to reverse his decision to leave the club too, while also admitting that he has a host of other seven-day approaches in.
All of the new faces should be available for his first game as manager at Blackstones on Wednesday night (7.45pm).
“I’m happy to have got the deals over the line,” said Frost. “Three of the lads are attacking options, which is crucial really.
“We’ve got quite a few more approaches in and I’m hopeful that’ll lead to a few more signings but can’t really say anything else out of respect to those players and clubs involved.
“James Tricks has been on dual forms with Ely and Moulton Harrox, but hasn’t really had much game time.
“I know him a bit from my time at Boston Town, but I also know that he’s been around the block a bit recently.
“He knows that and it’s time for him to stay somewhere and nail down a starting place at a club.
“He’s got the pedigree and can play up front in a two or wide in a three, so it gives us options.
“Curtis Revell is another forward and somebody I know from my time with Wyberton.
“He’s scored wherever he’s played, but the time is right for him to step up and play at a higher level again.
“He’s perhaps the most naturally gifted player I’ve managed before, but – and he knows this – he needs to get his head right.
“I think he can do that here. He’s quick and skilful and will play up front for us.
“Jake is somebody I’ve know a long time. He’s only 19, but has been with Lincoln City throughout his youth and has been third choice at Boston United for a few seasons.
“He’s very tall and vocal and will be with us until Boston United say otherwise.
“Luke Chester has been on the local scene for a while and, like Curtis, it’s time for him to step up and have a go at UCL standard.
“He’s a bit of a utility man but can play in defence or midfield. He keeps things simple and is always available, which is my kind of player. At 28 he knows this could be his last chance to step up.
“I’m really pleased to get Matt and Ian back to the club, too. They are both legends here and we will benefit massively from their experience.
“I’ve always admired ‘Warf’ as a player and a person and he’s told me he’s saddened by the club’s plight. I’m not 100 per cent sure about his availability week in, week out – but having him involved will give everybody a lift.
“As for ‘Dunny’, he’ll be playing when he can and also helping out with coaching.
“He can still offer a lot as a player, but also knows the other side of things after his spell as Pinchbeck manager.
“Like Matt, he’s nice and loud too and will bring a new voice to the dressing room.
“Stacy will also be coming back, which is another boost. I’ve known him a long time and it’s great to be working with him again.”
Holbeach’s recruitment drive is a much-needed shot in the arm for a team that sit rock bottom of the Uhlsport UCL Premier Division.
Frost’s first game at Blackstones is in the Lincs FA Senior Trophy, however, with the Tigers not in action this weekend.
