Newly-appointed Manager Mark Maspero explained “it’s the chance to work with these players again” as the reason he accepted the role at Yorkshire Amateur.

There’s an already established understanding between players and manager, according to Maspero who coached several current Ammers first-team players while at Farsley Celtic Academy. Maspero will also similarly reconnect with first-team coach Emeel Mati and Director Lutel James.

The new boss’ first match is tonight against Bottesford Town having first watched his Ammers side just last Saturday at Garforth Town.

“The fact I knew and enjoyed working with the players and the coaches was definitely a big factor,” began Maspero.

“We’ve not had a lot of preparation at all [ahead of Bottesford’s visit] so what I’ll be looking for is players that listen and can follow instruction. I’m looking for players who are good individuals but can play within a team set-up and play for the team, follow team instructions.

“We may need a few more experienced, older heads to compete better at this level but that’s further down the line. Let’s see how these players handle the next few weeks and we’ll go from there”.

Maspero has previous experience coaching at Scunthorpe United, where he coached several of the current Bottesford players whom he’ll face on Wednesday evening.

He’s also previously worked alongside current Ammers coach Emeel Mati and Director Lutel James, when together at Farsley Celtic Academy and Goole, respectively, before beginning his role at his current position as a full-time coach at i2i Soccer Academy in York.

“I know they’ll [Bottesford] be a footballing team. They’re established in this league. So they’ll be fit, move the ball well and compete,” explained Maspero.

“We have to match that in terms of the basics – run hard, work hard, compete and take care of the ball.

“[Mati] is going to be that link to the players that I don’t know.

“He’s going to have more contact time with the players. I can trust him he’s going to do what I ask. Training-wise, I’m more than happy to listen to his ideas and things he thinks he can improve the team with.

“[James] is very knowledgeable and intellectual. We know what each other are like and enjoy working together. I’m very glad he’s given me this opportunity”.

It’s been a successful 2022 for Maspero so far having been hired as a full-time coach at i2i soccer Academy in York before being appointed manager of the Ammers.

It’s hoped Maspero’s link between the two clubs, offering opportunities to the 100s of players enrolled at i2i Academy will provide benefits for both sides.

“My values are the same I’m going to instill on the players,” stated Maspero.

“It’s about listening, working hard, I enjoy it, I know how to build relationships, treat people. I enjoy being part of the players’ journeys and seeing them progress”.

Maspero has the home crowd behind him in his first fixture, tonight against Bottesford, kicking off at 7:45pm.

Ticket prices vs Bottesford: Adults – £6, Concessions – £4.50, U16s – £2.50.