GERARD Jones's wait for his first game since taking charge at Eccleshill boss has given him time to settle into his new role.

Jones was appointed as the Toolstation Division One club’s head coach at the end of November but two consecutive postponements have left his squad restricted to training for almost three weeks.

Outsiders saw Jones’ appointment as a gamble because he is only 25, but he is ready to stand alone and put his impressive list of qualifications to the test.

He said: “I will be a UEFA A Licence coach next year and that allows me to manage teams at the highest level. But I’m not just putting my qualifications to use, I’m also putting my experience to good use.

“I have a wide range of skills and am affiliated to the League Managers Association so I’m not out of my depth. I have worked hard to gain all of my qualifications and I’ve also worked abroad in Italy and New Zealand, I’m constantly pushing myself.”

If Jones ever needs a sounding board or advice he has a whole wealth of talented coaches and managers he can turn to.

Jones said: “I’m lucky enough to have a lot of contacts in the Premier League and Football League, I have access to mentors at a lot of professional clubs. There are many people I can discuss things with. But I won’t be turning to them for help because I won’t need their help.

“I have definite aims and plans that I’m going to work through. The first thing is to play to the philosophy of RIASA (Richmond International Academic and Soccer Academy) and deliver attractive football.

“As a result of that we will get points on the board and move up the league table. I have some exceptional talent in this group and will develop them and maximise their potential.

“Short term we’re looking to get the team playing attacking football, the mid term aim is to climb the ladder and the long-term goal is to build a successful club. I’m ready to get started.”