The Wright stuff

Reporter: Matthew Chambers
Date published: 21 February 2014


TOMMY Wright had to be reminded that he was back for a fourth spell at Boundary Park — but there is no forgetting the wealth of experience he brings as Lee Johnson’s new right-hand man.

Wright (48) has completed formalities on a deal which brings him to the coaching staff. The former fans’ favourite winger helped to oversee training yesterday.

“I’m here until the end of the season,” Wright told the Chronicle. “I’m not looking too far ahead. It’s nice to be back, for the fourth time.

“I have had good times here as a player and coach and have always had a good relationship with the

supporters and people at the club.

“I knew Lee Johnson, as he played under us at Chesterfield on loan there. I saw him at a reserve game and we had a chat. A few days ago he asked if I would be interested. I was desperate to get back in on the coaching side, so I didn’t have any second thoughts.”

Wright, who had been scouting for Plymouth — managed by his former boss at Athletic and Chesterfield, John Sheridan — saw signs of promise in his first session.

His hope, and that of Johnson, is that the pair can work together not only to improve the fortunes of the current crop of players but also to identify new targets.

Wright believes there is plenty of hope ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Gillingham, which comes with Athletic’s cushion from the bottom three down to a mere three points..

“There are good signs,” he said. “And one or two things everyone is trying to improve to make the results better.”

Johnson says he wants to adjust the structure among the backroom staff for next season and sees Wright’s arrival forming part of that process.