'I'm ready for the job'

New Oldham Athletic manager Stephen Robinson at SportsDirect.com Park.

ATHLETIC'S new manager Stephen Robinson admitted it was a wrench to leave behind two successful posts to take on a fresh challenge - but he is already making his mark on a "blank canvas" at SportsDirect.com Park.

Officially appointed at the weekend, the 41-year-old has left behind a job as assistant to Mark McGhee at Motherwell and also waves goodbye to Northern Ireland's national team.

Former Bournemouth and Luton forward Robinson has already made three signings for Athletic and expects more to follow soon.

Though he didn't apply for the job, he says he feels ready to be a manager.

And if and when he is faced with problems, he has plenty of know-how to draw upon.

"It took a couple of days to get over the line, not through the club or anyone else's fault," Robinson said of the drawn-out appointment that brought an end to a long and tortuous search for a replacement for John Sheridan.

"It is all finally done and I am delighted to be here.

SUCCESSFUL

"I didn't apply for the job. I had two fantastic jobs, at Motherwell with Mark McGhee, where we were very successful going from second bottom to end up fifth in the league; and with Michael O'Neill with Northern Ireland, where we had success in the European Championship and over the last two years.

"It wasn't something I looked for. But when I talked to the owner and met Sean (O'Driscoll) it really excited me.

"There is a blank canvas here and a real chance to do something with a club that has a massive history.

"I have definitely done my apprenticeship. I have worked under brilliant managers. Michael O'Neill has been fantastic and a massive guidance in everything - and still will be - and I have played under David Moyes.

"Mark McGhee has been great and he will be getting regular 'phone calls for advice.

"I am more than ready for the job. It tickled my fancy. I want to give identity back to the club and take it forward."

Robinson has bought 20 GPS systems to better track his player's movements in training.

On the field, he hopes to create a style of play supporters can get behind.

"Now is the time to kick on and give the club direction," he added.

"Our aim is to put a structure in place that secures the future of the club - bring young players through and put energy and pace and enthusiasm into the club."

Athletic chairman Simon Corney praised Robinson's experience and ethos and believes he has a strong coaching team around him.

"We are delighted to welcome Steve to the club as our first team manager," Corney told the club's website.

"He has a wealth of experience, both at club and international level and impressed me and the board straight away.

'IDENTIFIED'

"He has an outstanding reputation in the game and we believe his dynamic, methodical and thorough approach will quickly translate into success on the pitch.

"In addition, he has identified and begun recruiting players whom he believes will excite our supporters and demonstrate the strong work ethic and attractive style of play he demands.

"He has also been drawing on the extensive knowledge of Sean O'Driscoll and Lee Turnbull and has already identified additional staff he would like to bring in. We will be formally announcing these appointments in the coming days."