Mason Bradshaw | Mega Project | #5
It’s Mason’s first day as Stirling Albion boss, and we hear from the Stewart Taylor, the scout, the chairman, Stuart Brown, the under 20’s coach/scout, Andrew Todd, and the man himself, Mason Bradshaw. Unfortunately, the Assistant Manager is still on holiday in Bulgaria so was not able to speak with Mason.
Scout Report
Hi Mason, welcome to Stirling Albion.
Firstly, I’d like to introduce myself, I am Stewart Taylor, current Chief Scout at the club. I have been at the club since 2002, so as you can imagine this club means a lot to me and my family.
I have sent you a few profiles of players who I think you should take a look at, who can really add to the team. Susie (your PA) has been quite busy during pre-season gathering information on these players. Some have been harder than others due to their age and playing experience, however I hope the information I have sent you is sufficient enough.
Olumide Durojaiye
Olumide is someone I really think we can sign. He is still very young too, and can definitely progress. He was released by Falkrik in the summer although I have kept a close eye on him during the summer months and not many clubs are interested. I am aware that St Mirren are looking at him.
In terms of what he can offer to this team, he definitely likes to get around the pitch and would be an excellent Ball Winning Midfielder for Stirling. Also to note, the league is very physical so having someone who can sit in front of the defence to pick up the ball and recycle possession could be very crucial for us.
Some of the the traits I have noticed about him, although he isn’t the most aggressive player if the doesn’t like a decision he will often argue with officials which could lead in to trouble. We definitely want to keep eleven players on the pitch at all times.
Steven Ross
If we want to fight for the play off’s this year, we will definitely need a striker of the highest calibre. Steven fits the bill perfectly, he is very versatile as a striker. A man capable of playing a number of roles in the striking position.
Unfortunately Elgin City released him during the summer months meaning he is a free agent. A positive with this, we don’t have to deal with another club. Airdrie and Alloa are both interested in the 22 year old. Let’s get an offer in soon if we want Steven.
Although on paper Steven looks really good for this level, he has only managed to score one goal in his 43 appearances. He has played in the Scottish Premier League with Ross Count. His composure seems to make up for his lack of scoring ability at a higher level. I definitely think he will be a good signing for this league. Under the right management we can push him to the next level. Although he has been playing as a striker in recent years, he has not always played there, usually playing behind the striker when he was younger.
Michael McGowan
As I am not fully aware of the formation you are wanting to play, I have found an experienced winger who can add to both flanks if needs be. I have suggested Michael because of his versatility and if for example someone gets injured, he is able to play either wing.
He was released by Ayr two years ago and hasn’t been playing for a while, so he may not be as good as he used to be, however I think his versatility makes up for it. He is also very determined, which is a great bonus, if we were to get Michael in on a free transfer he would be an ideal tutor.
One thing that does let him down is his finishing, however it’s not a major issue. I am not saying he is a world beater, however he could be a very good squad player and with fixtures coming thick and fast we will need someone of Michael’s ability to play.
The Chairman
Dear Mason Bradshaw,
Congratulations on your recent appointment within the team. After a meeting with the other board members we have set some objectives that we’d like completed within the next year. They are broken down into categories (Domestic Success, Youth Development, Global Branding and Financial Standing) and your performance in these categories will help us when deciding to renew your contract.
Please note that some of the objectives are more important than others, and as a result some success/failures may weigh more heavily than others.
Domestic Success:
– Achieve the Promotion Playoff of Ladbrokes League 2.
– Reach the 4th Round of the Scottish Cup.
– Reach the 2nd Round of the Scottish League Challenge Cup.
Youth Development:
– Bring through 3 Academy players in March and hand them professional contracts.
– Lower our clubs average age from 24 to 23.
– Sign 2 players under 24 who play over 15 games this season in the first team.
Global Branding:
– Have an average home attendance of over 500
– Increase our Twitter followers to 2,200
Financial Standing:
– Ensure the Wage Budget does not exceed £4,000 per week.
– Make a profit across the summer and January transfer windows.
Please remember that these objectives are important, and while we respect your position as manager, these should be your focus for the next year. Should this go well and we’ll allow more flexibility in the future.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact me.
Stuart Brown
Mason Bradshaw’s Blog
Mega Project is a unique Football Manager experience. Mega Project features Mason Bradshaw, a rookie manager who never played professionally, who attempts to climb the football leader from the first job to becoming a world class manager. This is something that’s never been done before as we look from all angles, from Mason Bradshaw himself, the clubs, his family and friends, colleagues, the world of football and more.
Previous Mason Bradshaw instalments:
- One-Club Man: La Cantera
- One-Club Man: Defence-First Football & Club DNA In FM24
- One-Club Man: 1st Day on The Job, Meet The Team
- The Story of One-Club Man
- FM24 Release Date Announced!