Former Kingstonian FC midfielder Lee O’Leary has returned to the club after five years away after being appointed as the club’s new assistant manager.
O’Leary, who had two spells at Kingstonian as a player, agreed to join the coaching staff following discussions with manager Hayden Bird.
O’Leary said: “It has been a welcome return and something I’m looking forward to getting my teeth stuck into.
“I don’t think there were any clubs at this level, at this stage of the season, that took my fancy to be honest. But with it being Kingstonian, the history that I have with them, and working with Hayden who I haven’t known too well, the conversations that we have had have been really positive. It was too difficult for me to turn down.”
O’Leary previously managed Potters Bar Town FC and spoke highly of his recent encounters with the current Kingstonian team.
“I’ve been a manager in this league and I’m familiar with all of the players, or at least 99% of the players,” O’Leary said.
“I’ve played against a good few of them as well, so we’ve had battles over the years, so there’s some mutual respect there.”
Warm Reception
Speaking to Kingstonian.com, manager Hayden Bird said: “I’m delighted to welcome Lee back to Kingstonian.”
“I looked at a number of really good options and have taken my time to make the right appointment. In Lee, we have a perfect fit and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
O’Leary moved into management following his playing career and is looking forward to the opportunity to improve as a coach.
On working with Bird, O’Leary said: “I’m really looking forward to being Hayden’s number two, and just improving and evolving as a coach, and as a man manager.”
Aims for the Rest of the Season
Kingstonian currently sit in 7th place in the Pitching In Isthmian Premier League with 11 matches left to play, six points outside of the play-off places.
“The playing group is definitely strong enough to be in the playoffs, and we’ve got something to play for going forward,” O’Leary said.
“This is the business end of the season and it’s just about getting the boys together, staying really positive, picking up a couple wins and a little bit of momentum.
“It’s very much all to play for and that was a big contributing factor for me coming into the football club.”
Kingstonian’s next match is away to Cheshunt on Saturday, 26 February in the Isthmian Premier League.
