Ahead of his first match in permanent charge of Wolves, Rob Edwards addresses supporters in his official programme notes in Saturday’s Crystal Palace edition.
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Good afternoon, and welcome to Molineux for what, I have to be honest, is an incredibly proud day for me and my family.
From the moment I got the under-18 manager’s job 11 years ago, this was always my aim. I was lucky enough to do it on an interim basis, but to be managing Wolves as permanent head coach is a dream moment for me, and something I could never pass up. However, the focus can’t be on me, but on the team, and we’re going to need this place with us. Molineux can be so powerful and can make it so difficult for the opposition. I've seen it as a player and on the opposite side as a manager. It was at its best during Nuno’s time, when the team were absolutely flying, so that's what we need you all to try and create. But I'm not stupid, I know we've got to do our bit to get you on side and to get everyone with us. As supporters, you’re honest and wear your hearts on your sleeves, and I understand the frustration because we haven’t won for a long time, but it is a bit of a fresh start for us now, and there’s no doubt that you can help.
Of course, we have to believe that we can turn this around with 27 games to go. We know it's going to be challenging, because from this position no one's ever done it. People will write us off, but all we can do is bring it every single day, every training session and every game – we've got to leave it all out there. It's got to look like it means more to us – that'll be our message. The only way we're going to get out of this now is by incredible levels of hard work and living that every single day, trying to create a spirit and a culture where everyone's backing each other.
From the second Harry and I arrived at Compton last week, we could sense a belief. Once I got in the building, it was strange how quickly I felt like I’d not been away. The international period gave us time to speak to the staff at Compton and Molineux, get organised and prepared, and get my message across. However, we would have liked all of the players here, of course. We maximised the time by watching games and clips, but it’s spending time with them and being on the grass where you get to know them. It is going to take some time, that's clear, but I also recognise that time is not something you get in football, and we want to hit the ground running today.
We're coming up against one of the most organised and efficient teams in the league. They’re really well coached, with brilliant individuals, and everyone knows how well they've done since Oliver arrived, so it's a really difficult game. But we’re ready to be really, really honest with ourselves and do everything we can to fight our way out of this situation.
Thanks for your support. Rob.
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Supporters can purchase the first official matchday programme for Edwards’ first game in charge by clicking here.
