BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent manager James Webster has hailed the “meticulous” planning and preparation of new head coach Ryan Salter.

Salter stepped up following the recent departure of ex-Stanway Rovers boss Angelo Harrop, who has since opted to resume his playing career at Stowmarket Town.

He works alongside assistant boss Chris Smith and player-coach Pip Boyland.

And even after just a handful of pre-season training sessions, Webster says he has been thoroughly impressed with Salter’s contribution.

“Ryan’s done really well and deserves this opportunity,” said the Regent boss, who is preparing his side for their opening friendlies at Little Oakley on Saturday and at home to Chelmsford City next Tuesday “The pre-season schedule he’s put together is meticulous and planned out almost to the minute.

“It’s really brilliant and so detailed.

“I love the fact he’s young and enthusiastic.

“He’s got a different approach and he’s full of new ideas.

“Because of his age, I wasn’t sure how it would go at first because it can sometimes be a bit odd being coached by someone younger than you.

“But the boys love him and he’s certainly got the respect of everyone at the club.

“Pip will be helping him and he’s got bundles of experience of both coaching and playing step three football.”

Webster has also underlined the invaluable role played by right-hand man Smith, who was previously part of the management team at Brentwood Town.

“Chris does so much for me and the club and we’re a good combination, because he really enjoys the side of the job I don’t relish,” said the Regent boss.

“He’s very happy and comfortable talking to players, recruiting, negotiating and sorting out finances and that’s not something I particularly enjoy.

“I can’t put into words how important a role he played last season.

“He opened up a whole new catchment area by using his contacts in the Brentwood area and around that part of the A12.”

Webster has completed two signings so far this summer, bringing in Kevin Coyle from FC Clacton and former Stanway goalkeeper Nick Punter.

And while he admits it has been hard going on the recruitment front, he admitted being delighted to have tied down some of his stars from last season, including skipper Matt Cripps, Tom Richardson, Aaron Condon, Connor Witherspoon, Billy Hunt and Boyland.

“It was so important to get those boys to sign,” he said. “That was the biggest piece of business I wanted to get done.

“They were brilliant for us last season and I knew other clubs were sniffing around. That’s why I wanted to get them tied down as soon as possible, because losing any would have been a real blow.”