Allen targeting a thriller at the Villa

Richie Allen reckons opposition teams will be “scared to play” his new look Wyre Villa as they get set to embark on a journey into the unknown.

The former prolific non-league attacker has swapped terrorising defences to barking out instructions as he takes his first steps into management with the Stalmine-based Division One side.

The 35-year-old former Salford, AFC Fylde, Fleetwood and Bamber Bridge frontman will be supported by a host of well-known names in his first venture into the hot-seat.

Dixie Dawson and Joe Booth will assist the popular Preston lad in the dugout with former teammate Phil Doughty providing leadership and experience as captain on the pitch.

There’s been a big change in personnel at the club during the summer and Allen can’t wait to get cracking against Haslingden at home on Saturday.

“We’ve only got three or four lads who have stayed on from last season,” said Allen, who will sign on as a player but wants to orchestrate matters on the sidelines as much as possible.

“We’ve brought in a whole new set of players more or less and I’m excited by what I have seen so far.

“We beat a near full-strength Padiham 4-2 in pre-season and we battered them to be honest.

"We lost by the same score to Fulwood but we gifted them three goals.

"But I’m happy with what I have seen so far and I think if we can get everything right, teams will be scared to play us.

“I don’t know much about the league so it’s unknown territory for me but we’ll be doing our best to bring a winning team that plays good attacking football and aim for promotion.”

Contrary to rumours, Allen says none of his coaching side are being paid – he’s just determined to start his management career at a good club with plenty of potential.

“I saw the job advertised and when I came to speak to the club, they wanted to take me on board.

“I’m determined to make a success of management and for this level of football, the facilities here are bang on.

“I’m doing this for nothing – not a penny.

"People can talk all they want I guess – I’m just glad people are talking about Wyre Villa for a change!”

• Wyre Villa open their 2021/22 season against Haslingden St Mary’s on Saturday (kick off 3pm)

• Pictures by Derick Thomas and Steve Taylor

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