CLARIDGE FED UP WITH MILLWALL TALK

From the Echo, first published Tuesday 21st Oct 2003.

STEVE Claridge has `rarely been happier' in his illustrious footballing career than he is right now.

And the Terras player-boss, who takes his side into action against Havant and Waterlooville at the Wessex Stadium tonight, 7.45pm, says he has no intention of taking the vacant manager's job at Millwall.

He told Echosport: "The support I have received here, both from the fans and the board, is a big reason why I have not been tempted during my first few months in the job by a couple of offers I received to return to Football League clubs.

"While the speculation linking me to Millwall is flattering, I want to put this to rest now. I am committed to the job here and want to see it through. I believe we are on the verge of great things and I am not about to give up the exciting times ahead.

"I share the current regime's vision of Conference then League football and want to see how far I can go with that.

"Despite the physical stuff and some of the refereeing at this level, I am enjoying every moment of it. In fact, I have rarely been happier in my professional life."

Meanwhile, Claridge says there will be no old pals' act when he goes up against Hawks joint boss and former Cambridge and Birmingham team mate Liam Daish.

"I know both Liam and their co-manager Mick Jenkins really well and it'll be nice to catch up with them. Liam was an excellent defender at both Cambridge and Birmingham and we had plenty of good times together," he said.

Weymouth could find themselves clear at the top of the table if they see off the Hampshire side tonight and leaders Nuneaton drop points at Moor Green.

But Claridge expects the fourth place Hawks to be flying after winning at Dorchester Town in the league on Saturday.

"Liam and Mick have got Havant doing well in the league and playing the right way and I expect tonight to be a good game on the eye," he said.

The Radipole Lane side are again likely to be without striker Lee Phillips who needs a few more days rest to an Achilles injury.

Frontman Scott Partridge is also doubtful after needing five stitches to a head wound in Saturday's draw at Worcester City.

That could lead to a recall for out of favour midfielder Mark Robinson.

Claridge is urging his side to turn in a performance tonight, after the previous home set back against Stafford Rangers.

"We've almost been scoring goals for fun away from home. But we've only kept one clean sheet all season which tells its own story.

"It is vital we win our home games to continue to put the pressure on at the top. We have made great strides in the last few months but games like tonight have to be won if we are to continue to progress."