Sampson returns home and vows to win at Wembley again - EXCLUSIVE

THE FIRST manager to lead a Kent non-league side to Wembley glory, Tommy Sampson, is being released from hospital today - which is excellent news and caps off a magnificent week for Kent football, writes Stephen McCartney.

Redhill boss Sampson, who led Kent League side Deal Town to FA Carlsberg Vase glory underneath the Twin Towers in 2000, will walk out of hospital with an aid to return home.

Tommy and his wife Sandie enjoyed a fantastic day as guests of the Football Association last Saturday, to witness Ebbsfleet United win the FA Carlsberg Trophy, defeating Torquay United 1-0, courtesy of Chris McPhee’s 45th minute tap-in.

“It was a fantastic result for Kent football,” said Sampson, speaking EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

“It also brought back happy memories with Deal Town in 2000.”

Sampson paid tribute to Fleet boss Liam Daish for emulating Deal Town’s success eight years ago, again, that game was also settled by the only goal of the game, scored by Roly Graham.

And Sampson said: “I know how he feels as I have experienced all those highs myself and it remains an ambition of mine to be one of the first managers to win a national competition in the old Wembley and in the new."

Hopes are high for the Surrey club next season.

“I plan to give winning the Sussex County League title and return to Wembley in another FA Vase final, that is the plan," revealed Sampson.

“As we finished the season so well this year I am confident I will strengthen the side to have a serious tilt at both those ambitions."

The former Tonbridge Angels, Herne Bay, Deal Town, Ashford Town and Dartford boss is going to continue with his physio throughout the coming months, ready for the start of the football season.

The Maidstone based manager would like to thank everyone that has been supportive over the past six months and special thanks go to family, friends and all those at the WKNRU, staff and patients.”