Q&A's With Tom Baker

With less than a week before our first pre-season friendly (a trip on the fun bus to North Wales), the buzz around everyone at the club is getting bigger.

In the time since the end of last season and now, Trafford have brought in a new manager... Tom Baker. Tom had a great playing career himself and although it was cut short through injury, he is clearly motivated and excited by his new role as manager of our super, little club.

To get to know Tom a bit better and to wet the appetite ahead of the new season, Tom kindly answered some questions this weekend:

Supporters Club: I know its early days, but how have you found the transition from player to manager?
Tom Baker: Relative ease so far. Possibly the type of player and character I am and was has made the transition not to difficult, although I'm sure I will have some stumbling blocks along the way. The most difficult part is not wanting to kick a ball myself.

SC: Before you came to Trafford FC, what were your thoughts on the club and have they changed since you became manager?
TB: Always look on Trafford as a good, family club that play an attractive brand of football and are renown for a great pitch.

Since becoming manager I have now seen all the hardwork that goes on in the background by people to make it the club it is.

SC: Who do you support?

TB: Manchester United

SC: If you could have anyone in your team, past or present, who would it be?

TB: Andres Iniesta

SC: Who is the best manager you have played under?

TB: Garry Flitcroft

SC: Lager, ale or cider?

TB: Lager

SC: Is Chris Denham at the club just as your assistant or as a player too?

TB: Firstly assistant, will be used as player if needed

SC: What has been your biggest achievement in football?

TB: Football league debut, Captaining FC Halifax in FA cup first round on ITV and appointment at Trafford.

SC: … and biggest disappointment?

TB: Having to retire at the age of 28 due to knee.

SC: You said recently (in local paper) that a goal keeper is a priority after Tom Read left. Is Russ Saunders still on the books for the coming season?

TB: Russ is still here!

SC: What are your thoughts on the season ahead?

TB: Looking forward to hopefully a successful season at fantastic club, hoping to build a group of players that we can all be proud off. 

Thank you to Tom and good luck to everyone at the club for the coming season from us supporters.

Andy Glinka