EXCLUSIVE with – New Basildon United manager Ajay Ashanike!
Basildon United put out a statement yesterday announcing Ajay Ashanike as the successor to Darren Manning, who joined Grays Athletic last month. Ajay joins the club following a four-year reign as manager of Fisher FC making “one of the hardest decisions” in his footballing journey so far.
During his stay with The Fish, Ashanike was initially assistant manager in the summer of 2019 but was handed over the reins and guided the side to a mid-table finish as the season was cut short due to COVID.
And last season he provided the club with an amazing eight-game FA Cup run as they forced National League South side, Welling United, to a replay in front of a record attendance at St Paul’s. Ajay also took the side to its first cup final since reforming from Fisher Athletic, in the League Challenge Cup.
When asked about his time at Fisher FC Ajay Ashanike replied, “I couldn’t thank the board, players, and my amazing fans enough for the opportunity they gave me. During my time, I have enjoyed every second at the club and I will forever be grateful to them all.”
Ashanike stated, “The last few hours have been very overwhelming and I’m ever so grateful for all the messages. I spoke to the boys last night and the reaction was more than I could have expected as the new gaffa. I have worked with some of the boys before which makes it a little bit easier coming in, and I am really looking forward to our first session!”
The Bees currently find themselves fourth in the Isthmian League North following a very impressive start to the season under Darren Manning.
“Darren did a great job before he left, my job is to carry on the hard work and add my own ways of working into the group. I’m someone who doesn’t set goals, I believe in hard work, and I believe that will take us to where we need to be at the end of the season.”
Ajay’s first game in charge of Basildon United will be their toughest test yet as they travel to league leaders, Lowestoft Town. The Suffolk side are flying high on 34 points after just 13 games and having won their last 6 in the league, it will be a big challenge for Ashanike’s men.
“It doesn’t get better than this.” Ajay added, “It’s the reason why the league attracted me. I’m up for the big games and myself and the boys will be going up there to give our all for the fans and the club. One thing everyone will get is value for their money with my team and that will never change, home or away!”
As the signing was unveiled, Basildon United chairman, Lee Connor announced that “after speaking with Ajay, it was a no-brainer for me. I am very excited about this appointment. Let’s go!”
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