Gavin Macpherson admits it will be unchartered territory when he takes charge of Enfield Town for the final home game of his three-year tenure tomorrow.

Gavin’s resignation may have taken many by surprise but the outpouring of goodwill messages speaks volumes about his impact on the club — and he is determined to try and sign off with two wins, starting against  bogey side Slough Town before our final outing of the season at Hampton and Richmond in a week’s time.

“I don’t know how I’m going to feel tomorrow to be honest and it will certainly be strange to realise I won’t frequent that dugout,” said Gav. “The pitch staff will probably be quite pleased that I won’t be wearing out the technical area any longer!”

Gavin told the players of his decision a couple of days ahead of Thursday’s training session.

 “Training was pretty much run of the mill to be honest – well apart from some of them asking if they can now call me Gav instead of gaffer! In fact it was probably more relaxed than I’ve seen it at any time this season.”

That doesn’t mean the players are resigned to their fate and will just go through the motions. Rather, Gavin is expecting them to show as much professionalism as possible.

 “I told them in no uncertain fashion what I expect of them because I am absolutely desperate to win two football matches,” added Gav. “I’d rather we were not relegated of course but none of us want to finish bottom of the table.”

Henry Hawkins returns from suspension but Mickey Parcell and Lemar Reynolds are likely to be ruled out through injury.

“The fans have suffered this season so it’s important to restore just a little bit for them, it’s not about me,” said Gavin who revealed he has been completely taken aback by the number of goodwill messages.

“It’s been relentless. I never thought it would be so difficult to step aside. There are some incredibly sincere messages which I’m very grateful for. If I haven’t got back to all them, I certainly intend to.”

AW