Coppell says hard work is Seagulls' way forward

New Brighton boss Steve Coppell believes the only way to overcome the financial restrictions and perilous league position of the club is by developing a strong work ethic.

Coppell was appointed as manager last night as successor to Martin Hinshelwood, who was removed from his post following 10 straight league defeats which left the Seagulls bottom of Division One.

He has been offered a new director of football role with the club, which Coppell hopes he will accept.

The new manager has been made well aware by chairman Dick Knight that he will have no more financial clout than Hinshelwood and will have to work with the squad he already has, bolstered by loan signings.

Coppell believes his players will need to make up for what the club lack in financial muscle by buckling down on the training ground and on the pitch.

He told the club’s official website www.seagulls.co.uk: “When you can’t buy success, and write a cheque and sign someone that’s going to transform the team, then hard work is the only way you can do things.

“I hope that the formula that has seen me okay so far will continue here, but I can’t do a great deal by myself – I’ll need the backing and support of the staff that are here now and, most importantly, the players.”

“I am a hard worker. I’m sure the players will see that soon enough,” he added.

“It’s only the grind over each and every day, over each training session, and just trying to push and get the best out of each player individually, and then collectively, that you get results.”

Coppell is keen for Hinshelwood to remain part of the coaching set-up at the Withdean Stadium, adding: “I’ve said to him that I think he’s got a massive role to play helping to get the team out of its present situation.”