Reflecting on his time at Basildon United – Ajay Ashanike (Image: Nicky Hayes)
Former Basildon United boss Ajay Ashanike admits that ‘it wasn’t the right club’ following his departure after six games in charge.
In his short spell in the Basildon dugout, Ashanike won three and lost three in six Isthmian North Division matches with the Bees competing for a play-off place. The news of his shock resignation came after their 1-0 defeat to Felixstowe & Walton United at the end of January.
Ashanike treats his short stint at the TLM Environmental Stadium as a success.
“Personally, I believe that we did really well with the time we were at the club,” he insists.
“Step four football was always going to be hard for any manager but we went in and to win four games was great for us.”
It was the worst possible start for Ashanike’s side with a 5-1 defeat to league leaders Lowestoft but a three-game winning run followed.
Ashanike thinks a play-off place was on the cards after an impressive run of form.
“I was ever so proud to play against the teams we played against as a manager,” he said.
“We had to be on top of our game as a management team to make sure the boys were up for the game.
“Play-offs was the talk and we believed the boys were up for the fight to get the club there come the end of the season.”
Ex-Witham Town manager Chris Taylor replaced Ashanike and they are now in sixth place and five points off of the play-offs.
Ashanike admits it was not the perfect fit for him.
“It wasn’t the right club for me,” he admitted.
“A lot of boxes weren’t ticked but to my knowledge, that’s how the club likes to run.
“I came from a club where everything was done the right way from the top to bottom.
“I really know what good looks like and I wasn’t looking to drop the standard.
“Fisher had given us as a management team and players a lot so it was better I removed myself against what I don’t believe in.”
Ashanike joined Basildon from Fisher but returned earlier this month.
The 35-year-old admits he feels at home in Southwark.
“100% this is home to me,” he stated.
“Yes, players move on every season to better things but we always build again.
“Over here, I feel the love of the board and fans every time I step into the ground.
“Myself and my team have grown into men thanks to this wonderful club.”
Fisher currently sit in 12th place in the Southern Counties East Football League.
Ashanike regrets he didn’t remain at St Paul’s Sports Ground as he now feels the play-offs would be an unrealistic aim.
“Honestly, I believe I messed up big time,” he believes.
“I think the play-offs were the target this season and we had the squad for that before I left but for us now it is simple and that is to build for next season.
“We are now focusing on bringing in the right fit of boys to get us over the line and to start next season with.”
