MARK Bower cannot wait to get started after bouncing back into football management with Bradford Park Avenue.

Bower met the players for the first time and took training on the day that he was unveiled as Alex Meechan's successor.

He also confirmed that Danny Boshell, his right-hand man from his days as Guiseley boss, will be alongside him at Horsfall Stadium.

"It was a long day on Thursday but a very good one and it was nice to get back out on the training ground and work with the players," said Bower.

"I spoke to the owner on Tuesday and it all went quite quickly after that and I'm looking forward to my first game in charge. They don't come much tougher than away at Halifax Town but it could be a good one for us.

"I said to the players after training that they can just go out and express themselves because there is no pressure on us at all. Everyone will have it down as a home win on their coupon – and rightly so, given the current position of the clubs – so we can just go and play.

"Danny is coming in with me, my partner-in-crime so to speak. When I spoke to the owner, that was one of the first things that came up. I made it clear that I wanted Danny because we worked so well together at Guiseley.

"It is a tried and tested partnership and I think the experience we've got is going to be needed because this is a big challenge."

Bower takes over a dozen games into the season with Avenue still seeking their first win. They are at the foot of the National North table with only three points from a possible 33 and, following last Saturday's home loss to Salford City, are already out of the FA Cup.

"It is a big job and a difficult one. We have to try to get out of the bottom three first and foremost and then start to climb the table.

"We will have to show promotion-chasing form to do it from the position we're in at the moment – but it's surprising how quickly things can change with a few good results.

"This is a big opportunity for the lads as well because they can show us what they are capable of. There are a few players in that dressing room who were with us at Guiseley last season, so they have played in the National League and have that experience behind them.

"Me and Bosh know this division and we know the one above. We'll be using all our knowledge and contacts as we look to build the club back up."