Potter's magic journey inspires new Kiveton MW manager

Lee Thomson, who has taken over at Central Midlands League outfit Kiveton Miners Welfare, used to play alongside Potter at Boston United.

“I played with Graham Potter and I look at what he's doing and where he came from and that to me is a big thing,” said Lee.

“You can't get many higher accolades than managing Chelsea.”

Thomson, who has taken the reins at Kiveton with assistant Jamie Smith, admitted he didn't see a future manager in Potter at the time.

“He was a class player, a nice bloke, but did I see him as a boss? Hand on heart, no,” said Lee of the man who did top jobs with Swansea and Brighton before getting the Chelsea gig.

“He was a different sort of player, a cultured left-footed player. I saw him as an accountant or going into some form of business, so to see what he has done gives me massive drive to think 'could I eventually make that step up? You never know.”

Lee has also rubbed shoulders with several others who have gone on to make a name for themselves in the pro game.

“My card school wasn't bad,” he smiled.

“It had Neil Redfearn, who managed Leeds; Graeme Jones, who was assistant manager for Belgium in the World Cup and the Euros and is now assistant manager at Newcastle. There was also Peter Duffield, who has managed at a decent level.

“They were all really good and I learned from how they conducted themselves and it's nice to have that experience.

“I can still speak to Graeme Jones and ask for advice.”

Lee started out at Sheffield United and played for England U18s.

He went on loan to Boston United and although his pro career petered out, he had a good non-league career.

In more recent times he's had seven years as assistant manager and player at Stocksbridge and after taking a year out to enjoy playing, he's revved up to make a proper go of management as Kiveton target a move up to the Northern Counties East League.

“I feel I have a lot to offer,” added Lee.

“I've set myself a target for the next three years and also looking at what Kieran (Gallagher), the chairman, wants to do alongside myself and Jamie.

“The lads are buying into everything I'm saying, which is good.”

Kiveton return to CML action at home to AFC Bentley at Hard Lane on Saturday (2pm).

Elsewhere, Dearne & District host AFC Phoenix (2pm) and Dinnington Town are at home to Collingham (2pm).