New Ebbsfleet United manager Josh Wright wants players to have a spring in their step again after taking charge
Ebbsfleet manager Josh Wright believes he knows exactly what the squad needs.
Wright was the Fleet’s captain until he took over from Harry Watling last week, losing his first game in charge at new National League leaders Barnet on Saturday.
It’s a different dynamic for the 35-year-old but, having got a tune out of the squad during his previous game in charge against Aldershot in September, Wright was the obvious choice to take over.
“I know that group better than anyone, I know what they need, I know what they want and react to,” stated Wright.
“That’s down to me to get that out of them now. It’s a different role, I’m going to embrace it and attack it.
“They need positivity and they need belief. I know what they enjoy and want day-to-day.
“I’m not saying the word is love but they need what gives them a buzz or a spring in their step. They’re feeling low and vulnerable so they need that lift and push.
“They need someone who is going to drive the train and be at the front of the steam train pulling it along and driving it for them.
“I’ve led them for a long time now (on the pitch) and I need to continue doing that in a bigger, more fronted way and that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”
Wright helped Ebbsfleet to the National League South title in 2022/23 and was instrumental in helping the club avoid relegation last season.
He’s clearly someone with the club’s best interests at heart and should be afforded time by Ebbsfleet fans to get it right.
There’s no big targets, no bold predictions – just confirmation of Wright’s determination, passion and attitude transferring from the pitch to the dugout.
“It's just a case of taking each little group of games at a time, whether that’s two, three or four matches, then having your