I'm keen to give youth a chance, says newly-appointed Rochester United boss Darren Phillips

DARREN PHILLIPS says he will give youngsters a chance after being appointed as the new manager of Rochester United yesterday morning.



Phillips, 34, who has previously managed Charlton Athletic (Community) in the Kent County League, was the reserve team manager at Ryman League Division One North club Chatham Town last season, as well as the manager of the Kent County League representative side.

Rochester United finished in the bottom five in their inaugural Kent Hurlimann Football League campaign last season, with 38 points from 32 games and manager Glenn Barlow, 38, parted company with the club after one season in charge on 20 May.

Phillips met with club officials last Friday night and was offered the role on Tuesday morning.

“I’m really looking forward to a new challenge at an ambitious club like Rochester,” said Phillips.

“I now can’t wait to get started in what will be a tough league.
 
“Having spoken to the club officials, I'm keen to meet with all the players who finished last season at the club within the next week. I think it’s crucial we try to build on the success the club had when they won the Kent Invicta League.

“I've spoken to a number of players already, they’re all looking to play Kent League football this year, a number of them I have worked with before either at Charlton Athletic Community, Chatham Town or the Kent County Rep team.

“I'm keen to give youth a chance. I know a lot of coaches at Kent clubs in the Conference divisions so may ask for them to dual register some youngsters.

“I've also kept a list of players’ names who impressed me in the reserve league last season. The key will be to add to those already at the club.

“We need to set a standard and expect everyone to meet it, then exceed it, there's no reason why we shouldn't compete at the top end of the league.”

Phillips revealed he will be bringing Mike Langston with him as his assistant manager.

He said: “Mike has been with me since 2010 when he joined me at Charlton Athletic Community FC. Mike plays a key role in the changing room, something I'll want more than ever this year.

“Chris Cooper will be offered a role as player-coach something he took on towards the end of last season with Chatham Town's reserves and Liam Mitchell will be offered the role as physio.”

The club have yet announced their pre-season fixture list, but Phillips hopes to play his former club at Rede Court Road.

Phillips said: “I'll be planning pre season fixtures this week. I've spoken to Kev Watson at Chatham Town, they will bring a team to play us on Saturday 20th July, which will be an exciting game.  I’ve also had contact with Greenways.

“Ideally I'd like about six or seven fixtures so everyone gets plenty of playing time.”

Phillips says “there’s lots to do” before the club report back for pre-season training on Saturday 29 June.