Dean demands mentality shift to revive Brackley Town season

New Brackley Town manager Gareth Dean has dismissed claims of a 'young and naive' squad and is demanding an immediate change in attitude to address defensive issues and lift the Saints from 21st place in the National League North.

Gareth Dean has demanded a complete change in mentality from his Brackley Town players as he looks to revive their season. The new manager dismissed any notion that the squad is 'young and naive' and insisted the group must take responsibility for their poor start.

Dean took charge with the Saints sitting 21st in the National League North, having taken just eight points from their opening eight games. His first match in charge brought a 1-0 FA Cup victory over AFC Portchester on September 19, a result that halted a run of heavy league defeats.

Defensive concerns addressed

Dean pointed directly to the team's defensive record as a primary concern. The side has conceded 16 goals in seven league games, a figure that includes 5-0 and 3-0 losses to Buxton and Morecambe respectively. He stated that looking for external excuses is not an option.

"This group is underachieving, absolutely," Gareth Dean said. "I don’t want excuses for me. I don’t want excuses for them. I don’t believe in young and naive."

The manager explained his philosophy by referencing his own coaching staff. He noted that two members of his management team were promoted to senior roles at the age of 21, arguing that age is irrelevant to performance and accountability.

Looking for reinforcements

Dean emphasized that every player must first look at their own contribution before criticizing others. "You need to look inwardly, first and foremost, before you speak outwardly and say it’s because of this and that," he said.

He confirmed he will assess the squad in the coming weeks and is prepared to bring in new players if required. His immediate focus is on halting the poor league form, with the next opportunity coming at home to Scarborough Athletic on September 26.

The 1-0 win over Portchester, achieved with a switch to a three-at-the-back formation, provided a platform. Dean now wants that result to kickstart their National League North campaign, which sees them 14 points behind leaders Hereford. The manager's clear message is that a shift in mindset is non-negotiable for a squad currently in the relegation zone. The next test is against 15th-placed Scarborough at St. James Park this Saturday.