“Very excited to get started”: First look at new Trethomas Bluebirds boss

Trethomas Bluebirds have announced former Afan Lido boss Paul Evans as the club’s new first team manager.

Evans comes with a wealth of experience as both a player and manager, having been a part of Lido for 35 years.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer after the appointment, Evans said: “I’m very much looking forward to it. After speaking to chairman Dave Evans as well as Derek Brazil, their morals and ethics on the way they want the club to be run in a family first way is what I’ve been brought up on.

“The enthusiasm and excitement is here which you’d expect after a great season, and we’re looking forward to continuing that with our brand of football.”

Evans brings with him assistant manager Paul Reid, and first team coach, Leighton Jones.

Asked about the kind of player he’d be looking to bring in, Evans said: “I know a lot of players in the league, but it’s about attracting the right player and right personality for this football club.

“We don’t want to just pick anybody who could get us through the first few months, we need somebody who can settle us down.

“If that means playing a brand of football which could change from one part of the season to the next, then that’s what we’ll do.

“The structure of the club means there are likely boys within the youth and reserves who are ready to step up, and I look forward to working with them and maybe finding that ‘gem’ as they say.”

On his style of football, Evans said: “You have to adapt to certain teams and certain facilities. Our home ground here is fabulous – playing on a 4G pitch allows you to get the ball down and create options.

“On a grass pitch though you may need to adapt and tweak things. We’re experienced people in the league both playing and coaching, so we know when and how to switch things up.”

Overall, Evans said he is “very excited” to get underway, adding the move has given him a “fire in my belly” since leaving management six months ago.

Chairman Dave Evans also spoke to Caerphilly Observer, and said after an “extensive search”, Paul was the clear candidate.

He said: “He commanded respect instantly, and I took to him right away. He’s a straightforward guy, and his views on developing youth is something we really value here.

“It’s a great opportunity for the club at this time, and I’m very excited for the future.”

The new Bluebirds boss has said he already has plenty to think about ahead of the club’s second season in the Cymru South, which will likely start towards the end of July.