Andy Woodman on the gap between National League and League Two, Michael Cheek’s adaptation to the EFL and the ‘most improved’ player in his Bromley squad

EXCLUSIVE

BY EDMUND BRACK

Bromley boss Andy Woodman has acknowledged there is a gap between the National League and League Two as his side gets to grips with the EFL.

Woodman guided Bromley to League Two for the first time in their history following their National League play-off final win over Solihull Moors.

The Ravens recorded back-to-back wins in the fourth tier in their opening two fixtures following promotion – beating Harrogate and AFC Wimbledon.

But Bromley have lost three of their last four and picked up two red cards.

“There is definitely a gap between the divisions,” Woodman told the South London Press before last weekend’s defeat at home to Notts County.

“I wouldn’t say I have underestimated it – I probably discredited it much more than I should have. I’m the first to say that.

“The quality of crossing and defending and the running numbers are more. Those three simple things have definitely stepped up.

“When I look at the other squads, and I mean this with respect, when you look at their bench, some of these clubs have bench players who would I would to have – they’re good players.

“That means they have more riches than us. We’re fresh in the league and we can’t be too harsh on ourselves.

“We know there are going to be good and bad days. We have to stick to what we’re good at and we will get results.”

Michael Cheek is currently the joint top goalscorer in the division – alongside Doncaster’s Luke Molyneux and Notts County’s Jodi Jones – having four the back of the net four times so far.

The 32-year-old spent his entire career outside the EFL before firing Bromley to promotion last season.

“He’s been excellent,” added Woodman.

“There were one or two question marks, which always fascinated me, of people saying: ‘Can Michael Cheek play in the league? Can he make the step up?’ There was never any doubt.

“The guy is a goalscorer and he doesn’t rely on anything else other than his natural goalscoring instinct.

“I’m delighted for Michael Cheek and that he’s putting the ball in the back of the net for me.”

Woodman made 12 signings in his first window as a manager, where he had to wrap up all business within the summer transfer period.

Marcus Dinanga, Omar Sowunmi, Lewis Leigh and Danny Imray were just some of the new faces through the doors at Hayes Lane.

“It was new territory for us as a football club,” added the former Crystal Palace goalkeeper coach.

“In the past, when the window is shut in the National League, we could still get a loan.

“In one breath, I’m glad with what I have in my squad. In the other breath, I’m hoping the football gods are looking down on us and we don’t have any more sending offs or injuries in key positions and we have to get ourselves out of trouble.

“I’m immensely chuffed with what we have got and how we have done our business.

“I’m delighted the window is done and we can crack on with what we have got.”

Woodman, who had spells at Palace, Brentford and Northampton as a goalkeeper, called Bromley stopper Grant Smith the best keeper in the National League last season.

The former Yeovil stopper has kept his number one spot in League Two, with Sam Long arriving from Lincoln in the summer to provide competition.

“Grant has been great for us,” added Woodman.

“He’s continued his form from last season. He’s a top keeper in this division – we’re blessed to have him.

“Without a shadow of doubt, I have no problems with Grant Smith in my team in this league. He’s been excellent for us and he will continue to do so.

“We mustn’t underestimate Sam Long behind him – Sam’s a very good keeper. Grant’s form will be dedicated by how Sam keeps pushing him as well.

“We two number ones pushing each other – that’s what we wanted.

“I’ve been in that position myself – you need someone pushing you every day.

“You, as a goalkeeper, have to realise that every time you walk out on a pitch on Saturday that you have to perform because the guy behind you is waiting to come in.

“Equally, Sam has to keep that pressure on Grant to get into the team. The plus side on it is that the level of training has stepped up.

“It’s good for us a club.”

Academy graduate Jude Arthurs has made five starts in League Two this season. The 23-year-old has to compete for two of the midfield starting spots alongside Ben Thompson, Ashley Charles and Leigh.

“Jude has been one of our most improved players,” said the 53-year-old.

“I probably look at Jude from when he’s been here to where he is now. What I love about Jude is that he doesn’t waste a minute on the training pitch.

“He’s out there working on his game and knows what he has to get better at and has worked at it.

“He knows he can’t just be a running player who gets about and tackles – he is developing his game.

“I’m really chuffed for Jude – he’ll be great for us.”

PICTURES: EDMUND BOYDEN