We are very pleased to announce the return to the club of Michael Meaker who will be joining the management team as coach.
Meaker first linked up with the Peacocks in the summer of 2015 as player coach but was quickly appointed assistant manager to Leigh Robinson, the duo overseeing a highly successful few years during which time Town won the Southern League West Division title and reached the 1st Round Proper of the FA Cup. Meaker and Robinson departed for Truro City last September but parted company with the Cornish club in March.
A former professional footballer for 16 years, he played for QPR in the Premiership among other clubs as well as representing Wales at international level. He also holds a UEFA A Coaching License. Remarking on his return to the Cygnet Health Care Stadium, Meaker said:” It’s lovely to be back home and great to be working with Rob and Matt again. Rob did a fantastic job when he took over as manager last season and I hope I’ll be able to help us kick on further this season. I had other offers from clubs which didn’t excite me, so I was contemplating my first year off in 31 years of football but the chance to come back to this club was too good to refuse. I know all the players, they had a successful season last year and there’s no reason why we can’t go one better this time round. I’m really looking forward to getting my teeth stuck into the role and starting the season.”
The addition of Meaker to the management team comes partly on the back of Steve Perkins being unable to commit full time to his coaching role this season due to FA work commitments and his geographical location. Head of Football Rob Dray continued:” We’re really pleased to welcome Michael back as first team coach. He is familiar to the lads and importantly has a great level of coaching experience which can only benefit the team. Hopefully he can help turn those 1% margins and fine lines in our favour as we make another push for promotion so we’re both looking forward to the season ahead. It’s unfortunate Steve was unable to fully commit but we’re hoping he will still be involved to help with analysis when circumstances allow.”