By Matt Badcock,
BRAD QUINTON is ready to hit the ground running when his phone rings with a new management challenge.
The 40-year-old left Braintree Town in October early into his second season in charge.
His first year saw the Iron make an instant return to the National League as they won promotion through the National League South play-offs in May 2017.
It cemented Quinton’s reputation as an up-and-coming manager in Non-League after a successful spell at Enfield Town, who he took close to promotion from the Bostik Premier.
Quinton, who was heavily linked with the Hemel Hempstead job when Dean Brennan left for Billericay Town, says he’s putting in the groundwork now ready for his next opportunity.
“It’s something I love doing,” Quinton said. “When we took over at Braintree we didn’t have one player in the dressing room, so I had to start afresh.
“It was a three-year plan with what could happen eventually and with no pressure on. We got promoted in the first season so we overachieved for the club.
“The results are what they are and they’re still where they are at this moment in time. It’s hard for a club like that because they’ve not got the money to move on as quickly as they want to.
Preparation
“But, myself, I’m really looking forward to the new challenges ahead.
“I’m young, the expectation of delivering on small budgets is what I do well.
“I love all the analysing, looking at opposition and their strengths and weaknesses. I’m still looking at players and seeing who can perform and progress. My phone is on fire from players asking when I’m back so it’s good to be in touch.
“But the preparation for Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and being in the dressing room is something I miss.”
Quinton is using the time to pick the brains of other managers and will visit former Iron boss Danny Cowley at Lincoln City.
He’s also proud of his part in players like Corey Whitely, who he had at Enfield and went to Dagenham, moving up the ranks, or keeper Ben Killip’s England C recognition.
Having been involved in the top three tiers of Non-League football, Quinton is comfortable at various levels.
“It has to be right,” Quinton said. “What you get from me is 120 per cent every single week. Hopefully it won’t be long – I can’t wait to get back.”



