GRAY: I WILL LEARN FROM FIRST YEAR

Sutton manager is confident for new season

- David Richardson

MATT Gray admits his first season in management produced some difficult challenges but he and Sutton United will be better for it.

The 38-year-old had the U’s in fine form when the campaign was curtailed although it came after a tricky opening period.

By the time they won at Torquay United in November, it was only their second victory in 17 matches including an FA Cup defeat that saw goalkeeper Alan Julian score a last-minute equaliser to inspire Billericay Town to success in a replay.

“There were a few things I hope I won’t have to deal with again!” Gray told The NLP. “The first half of the season was an unbelievable learning curve for me as a manager.

“We were struggling with injuries and going to Yeovil with the bare bones. I was signing a player at Fleet services on the way down to play left-back for me.

“I’ve been involved in clubs before over the years where you’re on a bad run and the performances are as bad and it seems like there is no light at the end of the tunnel.