richardabson

For the first time ever in my long career playing FM (formerly Champ Man) I took the plunge and decided to manage a non-league team. I plumped for Northwich Victoria as they are my local side. I have taken a totally different approach to managing my team than before and it has proved hugely successful so I may as well share the idea....

I have always enjoyed the process of searching for players, scouting them over a period of games and picking gems from a long list of available players. I have continued to do this with Northwich and have had most success in the loan market and buying Prem/Championship youngsters who are transfer listed cheaply. I also immediately found a Premier League "parent" club - Blackburn Rovers who have supplied two quality players each season. My squad size is fairly large and their are no "favourites" other than captains and topscorer so for the first time EVER I have let my assistant manager pick the team for every game and conduct the teamtalk. I concentrate on the post-match and the press contact and focus on making morale high - better morale equals better results definitely!

So far I have finished 1st in Blue Square premier, followed by 1st in League Two, then 2nd place in League One and 5th in The Championship (losing play-off semi-finalist)

There are still gaps in my team and weaker links but this formula has proven successful and its one of my most rewarding careers to date! I can't wait to get home each night and look for more players!