Gray Keen To Take Charge

As the search for Wolves next manager picks up pace, caretaker boss Stuart Gray has spoken of his desire to take ove the role on a more permanent basis.

It is the second time Gray has held eth temporary position, first taking over the reigns after the departure of Dave Jones, and he sees himself as the natural choicet to succeed Glenn Hoddle

'Stability is important and I know the club from top to bottom. And I think that I have the respect of all the players.' he told the clubs official site.

Whoever is appointed will have a squad more streamlined than ever before after the recent departure of several senior players, but as Stuart points out, there are always positives to be found in every situation, if you are prepared to look for them.

'When you lose nine players from your first team squad then 30 per cent of the options that you had available are lost.
'So it's going to be a difficult challenge but it gives some of our youngsters a good opportunity to make a name for themselves.'

For now, his time is taken up preparing the squad in Alicante for next season, a plan drawn up before the departure of Hoddle, something that not only caught the fans by surprise, but also the backroom staff, as he explained.

'Jez (Moxey) has asked me to take charge of the team but the pre-season was already planned and organised so it was just a case of setting the wheels in motion.'

'Certainly all of the lads are working hard over here in Spain. The training camp will help build up a physical presence that will be vital in the marathon of the season that lies ahead.'

'I was surprised. (by Hoddles exit) 'He had been informed of the budget restrictions but was quite upbeat when we all returned after the summer break last week. So, when I heard the news, it was a bit of a shock.
'It was my second spell working with him and, like the first, I enjoyed it.'

Stuart faces some stiff competition for the job in the form of fans favourite Paul Ince, believed to be in talks with Jez Moxey this week.

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