CHRIS Search has set his sights on following in the footsteps of the Cowley brothers after taking over as Concord Rangers' new manager.
Danny and Nicky Cowley kick-started their career in the dugout with the Beachboys in the Essex Senior League and their success has seen them move onto the likes of Lincoln City, Huddersfield Town and Portsmouth.
Search has been installed as the Essex outfit's new boss following Danny Scopes' decision to walk away from the role a week after Concord's narrow FA Trophy final defeat to EFL outfit Harrogate Town at Wembley.
Despite knowing it will be difficult to match the achievements of the Cowley brothers and Scopes, Search is keen to prove doubters wrong at Thames Road.
Search, who enjoyed a successful period as the Beach Boys' under-18s chief prior to being handed the top job this week, said: “When you look back at previous managers like Danny Cowley and Danny Scopes, you can't help but feel privileged to have been handed the reins.
“What Danny and Nicky achieved at Concord and have gone on to do elsewhere is nothing short of remarkable, while Scopesy is Concord through and through and led the club to Wembley for the first time.
“I am relishing the opportunity and hoping to follow in their footsteps by bringing success to the club.
“People on the outside may be doubting my capabilities because it is my first senior managerial job, but I had fantastic success with Concord at youth level and I'm looking forward to the challenge.”
The 42-year-old, who was unanimously voted in as Scopes' successor by Concord's committee, has appointed former Charlton Athletic and Dagenham & Redbridge winger Danny Green as his assistant manager, while ex-Brentwood Town chief Craig Shipman has been installed as first team coach.
Search has already turned his attention towards persuading key players to remain.
He added: “I'm glad Danny has agreed to become my assistant because he played for the club and knows football inside out, while Craig is also a great addition for us.
“I have already had conversations with some players about their future because I want there to be continuity and they have the Concord DNA.
“We want to keep the party going after a memorable day at Wembley earlier this month.
“Concord are always deemed to be punching above their weight, but we love being the underdog.”
