We're very happy with the squad that we've assembled and have a lot of quality in all areas, says Tunbridge Wells boss Luke Carpenter

TUNBRIDGE WELLS manager Luke Carpenter says his sides preparation going into their Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division campaign has gone well.

Carpenter has taken over from Richard Styles, who was unveiled the manager of their relegated league rivals Whitstable Town on 16 May, after three seasons in charge at Culverden Stadium.

Carpenter was asked how he has settled in at his home-town club.

“It’s been really good so far. As staff and players, we have all settled in really quickly and the atmosphere throughout is positive,” said Carpenter.

“We have a lot of new signings this season as a majority of last year’s squad have moved on.

“We’re very happy with the squad that we’ve assembled and have a lot of quality in all areas.

“We have the likes of Trevor McCreadie, Jack Walder and Tommy Smith, who have both played most of their football in the Isthmian League.   Add to that Dan Tear and Matt Astle, who are established players at this level in Sussex.

“Chandler Kasai, who has joined us from Punjab and Jaan Stanley, who is young but comes with Isthmian experience.  I could be here all day talking about the signings that we have made.”

Tunbridge Wells finished in eighth-place last season and kick-off their new campaign with a trip to Ashford to tackle fifth-placed finishers Kennington.

“It’s going to be a tough game. Kennington are a good side and never easy to beat, especially at their place,” added Carpenter.

“It should be a good game as both sides will be looking to take home three points but our preparation has gone well, so we will be hopeful of getting the result we want.

“We want to compete as much as we can in all competitions. If you had asked me based on last season I could have given a straighter answer but this year has seen so many changes it is difficult to judge other teams right now.”

When asked what kind of league he is expecting this season, Carpenter replied: “An unpredictable one. There will be lots of surprises as there are teams strengthening quietly under the radar.”

Meanwhile, former Tunbridge Wells central defender, Scott Whibley, 32, has today announced his retirement.

Kennington  v  Tunbridge Wells
Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division
Saturday 30 July 2022
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Homelands Stadium, Ashford Road, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NJ