News

Update from Matt Evans, Development Team Manager

1 Jul 22

"After 4 seasons working with a group of youth players, we step into managing the Development squad this season. My aims are to develop a team that is admired for playing exciting football whilst delivering strong results. Alongside this the key focus has to be developing players that are ready to step into the First Team group and be successful.

We trust the process, accepting it will take time and understanding there will be bumps along the road. We have an incredible group of talented young players and we want to develop a reputation for playing positive entertaining football with a squad that blends youth and experience.

The club continues to evolve and improve every year. I am really excited about what we can achieve, not just in the Dev squad but also the First Team and Youth Team. There is a real unity amongst the coaching team and this will help all groups be successful.

We are still getting to know a few new players but it is clear that there are bags of talent in the club. There is a really special group of 16 and 17 year olds coming through. I am looking forward to getting to know them and keeping an eye on them over the next 5 years. They will achieve some incredible things.

I also look forward to a challenge. Every season, every game, presents a challenge and new opportunities to learn, whether that’s the players or us as coaches.

Alton not only has tremendous facilities but a large group of very talented and committed people running it behind the scenes. Everyone can see the opportunity that the club has to grow and I look forward to being a small part of this journey."