NEW Wellington AFC manager Tim Legg believes his side have what it takes to be competitive at Toolstation Western League Premier Division level, as he begins his task to keep the club in the division.

Legg took over from Clive Jones this week and inherits a side sitting in 18th with nine points from 11 games.

His first game in charge is this afternoon (ko 3pm), at home to 14th-placed Cadbury Heath.

Legg knows the club inside out, having played through the Wellington age groups from under-9s upwards and represented the first team in two spells either side of stints with Chard Town, Taunton Town and Bridgwater Town.

His playing career has been hampered by injuries of late and, though he will remain signed on as a player, his primary focus will now switch to the management task.

Legg told the County Gazette: “I have always been involved in coaching – I have worked with Exeter City’s academy and currently work with Bristol City’s academy – and I am looking forward to the challenge.

“There will probably be some movement of players but I hope the majority of this squad stays, as I think we have the nucleus of a strong squad.

“There is more money in the league this year, particularly towards the top end, but that is a challenge Wellington has always faced at Premier Division level.

“It will be difficult against teams with bigger budgets but I believe, with the right foundations and coaching in place, there is no reason we can’t compete.”

Legg went on to outline his priorities for the team and club as a whole.

“Firstly, I want there to be more competition for places,” he said.

“I would like players to be challenged and be fighting for their spots in the first team.

“I would also like to establish a playing philosophy and a club DNA, from the first team right down to the youth teams.

“I know the club and the town well, and a lot of people do a lot of good work to make sure Wellington is a good community club.

“We have an Under-18 team this year and there are a lot of youngsters playing football for Wellington, so I will look to help these young players progress as much as possible.”