NEW Chickerell United boss Shaun Murphy is excited by the long-term project that awaits him at the Stalls, with several emerging youth players set to play for the club this season.

Murphy, who succeeds Steve Coward as manager, has worked with the Chickens’ youth system for a decade and can’t wait to get started.

He told Echosport: “There’s a lot of good talent coming through. It’s a big physical step up for them from youth football to adult.

“What we’ve tried to do is promote the youth, it’s something we’ve had to look into. We think we should be alright for most positions so hopefully the players can do the job.”

Murphy feels the season would be a success if they emulated last season’s finish of fifth, but the new man at the helm insisted the next few seasons are about building for the future.

“Fifth would be good but it’s almost like a clean slate. Anything above that would be a good season. It’s more about getting the players used to it for a few seasons. It’s a bit of a transition period really.

Murphy also revealed that the influential Warren White has retired from football, labelling him a “big miss”.

And the Chickens’ boss is looking forward to getting in the dugout, but admitted to some apprehension before the season’s start.

He said: “I’ve always been a Chickerell boy. I’m a little bit nervous to be honest. It’s a bit of a step up for myself, a learning curve, but I’m very excited.”