A Swift start for new Stenhousemuir boss

Stenhousemuir manager Stephen Swift (right) during this first match in charge of the club (Pic: Dave Johnston)

Swift made the move to Stenny after four successful years at Lowland League side BSC Glasgow, following the departure of Davie Irons.

Speaking to Warriors TV, the new boss says it’s been a hectic introduction to the club but is already thoroughly enjoying his being in the manager's chair at Ochilview.

“They're an honest group [of players]. It's been good apart from the result [a 2-0 defeat to Albion Rovers in Swift's first game] obviously, but I've really enjoyed my first few days.

Stenny lost to Albion Rovers in Swift's first game in charge (Pic: Dave Johnston)

“I've played in the lower leagues. I've been with Stranraer, Queen of the South and Ayr United and this was a club that always gave tough games.

“It's a good club. Speaking to the board I saw what they've done behind the scenes which is terrific.

“There's no reason why Stenhousemuir can't be one of the best part-time teams in Scotland

“Everything is in place.”

The 40-year-old says one of his first priorities is to find out which of the players want to join him on the journey.

“I want to get in the dressing room, look at the players in the whites of their eyes and say, 'who actually wants to be here?'.

"Who do we want that will fit into our model to move forward?

“Just in the short period I cannot fault their endeavour. They're a real honest group, but we've got aspirations where we want to bring in good players to this club.

“We will pick the best players we feel will fit into that system and will recruit the ones we want as well.

“With that mix I think we can bring success.”

Joining Swift in making the move from BSC are his assistants Frazer Wright and Michael Moore, along with goalkeeping coach, Stephen Bryceland.

"I want to take this club into League One,” Swift says, “I have a plan that could make this the best part-time club in Scotland.

"The style of football I play is high intensity. I like a high press and I like my players to work hard and get in the opposition's face and try to suffocate them when they're trying to build.

“The goal in the long-term is to get this club as close to the Championship as possible.

“We believe if we can implement what we know then we can do it.”