Alker Links Up With Reds’ Coaching Staff

October 27, 2009 by Paul Mc

Reds’ stalwart Captain Malcolm Alker will join the Reds’ backroom staff for the 2010 season as he casts an eye towards the end of his playing career.

Alker was officially unveiled as an assisstant coach today and will continue on with his playing duties as the Reds’ look to bring through a young team of British talent for the 2010 season.

I’m no fool. I know that I cannot continue playing for ever and I am looking to end my career on a high

Director of Football Steve Simms said: “Malcolm is at the start of a new journey with the club. He is a fearsome and respected player on the field but he knows that he cannot play for ever. His stature in the club is such that it seems obvious that coaching would be the next step in his career. He has all the ability to become a great coach and this next season, with him on the coaching staff as well as the field, will enable both ourselves, and indeed Malcolm to assess whether he has the ability to become a Head Coach.”

Alker meanwhile is chomping at the bit to take up his new duties: “I’m no fool. I know that I cannot continue playing for ever and I am looking to end my career on a high. Coaching will be a new challenge for me and I know that I will have to learn to combine it with playing the game this season. I know I have to do what is right and best for the team and I have a fantastic opportunity to sell myself to the Club.

I still have to go out there and deliver on the pitch and I will have to find the right formula. It may be difficult with split loyalties between the players and the coaches but I am really confident I can make a great go of it. I’m really looking forward to getting back in next month and getting to work.”

Memberships and season tickets for the Reds’ 2010 campaign are on sale now and you can save huge amounts for you and your family by signing up early.