Larkin consigned to losing star Charlie Sharman

Tuesday 29th June 2010

TUNBRIDGE WELLS manager Martin Larkin says he was pleased with the turn-out following the club’s first pre-season training session last weekend.

The Kent League side trained on the 3g surface at Mascalls School in neighbouring Paddock Wood and Larkin told www.tunbridgewellsfc.co.uk: “It was hot - very hot!” We had 22 there, and with nine first team players on holiday that was a good turn out. We did a mix of fitness and ball-work, and there were one or two pleasant surprises from the new players that were with us.

“We did miss out on a couple of targets due to money-related matters, but there was one significant triallist in attendance - although I think it was us that were on trial, not him! If he agrees to sign it will be a great addition to the side we already have here.

“The prospects were suitably impressed by the 3g surface. We also included four lads from the U18s in the session - so at this point, it is all looking good on the numbers front. Now over the next two weeks we just need to decide on 18 lads to move forward with, so the squad is in place for the George Piper Courier Cup weekend - and then we’ll be in a position to name names.”

One player who definitely won’t be wearing Tunbridge Wells’ colours next year is Charlie Sharman, while Keelan Mooney will train pre-season with both Maidstone United and Tunbridge Wells.

“If Keelan can feature in Maidstone’s League team, then well done to him. If not, we will be here welcoming him with open arms,” Larkin reveals. “He will be training with us on Saturday.”

Larkin had previously revealed a number of players had taken it upon themselves to remain fit during the off-season - and he was impressed with the look of things compared with the start of pre-season last year as a result.

He said: “Things felt a lot better this time. The guys didn’t want the season to end in April, so they have all been doing their own stuff. Even Perry Spackman came back looking slimmer and fitter!”

It wasn’t only that pre-season training session that started to push the focus forward on the year to come, however, but the announcement of the League Cup draw - a local affair against Sevenoaks Town, and the anticipation of the publication of the FA Cup and FA Vase early round draws scheduled for next Monday.

“The League Cup draw was a good one,” Larkin reflected. “I’m always happy to play Sevenoaks as the boys love playing them. Those derby games are always tight and get the blood pumping. Personally, I haven’t won a cup game yet, so we are keen to progress in the cups.”

Yet, for all his enthusiasm to progress in the Cups, Larkin wouldn’t opt for an easy run if he could have his choice pick in next Monday’s FA Cup draw. “Ashford Town away, followed by Tonbridge Angels at home would be nice! I just don’t want any Kent League teams!”

Article courtesy of www.tunbridgewellsfc.co.uk