Backroom Additions

ARGYLE manager Ryan Lowe has added John Lucas and Jimmy Dickinson to his backroom staff at Home Park.

Both men previously worked alongside the new manager at Bury last season; John’s role is Head of Fitness and Conditioning, while Jimmy will be Performance Analyst. 

John started his coaching career at Rochdale in 2007 and stayed for four years before going to Barnsley in 2011 and then linking up with Ryan at Bury in 2014.

Jimmy followed a similar path, having started a placement at Rochdale while studying at university before joining his boyhood club Bury, also in 2014.

Ryan is delighted to have got the men that he wants, while Kevin Nancekivell and goalkeeping coach Rhys Wilmot will stay on as part of the backroom team.

He said: “I’ll be bringing John as my fitness coach. He’s the best; we had a 97% ratio in terms of players last season. Obviously, the physio plays a part, but it was down to him making sure the lads were right and ready.

“Jimmy is the best analyst because he does a lot of work unnoticed. We are going to need player profiles, opposition and tactics. He is the best in the business, hence why we have brought him.”

Ryan right-hand man is assistant-manager Steven Schumacher, a long-time ally.

“He [Schumacher] brings enthusiasm to the lads,” said Ryan, “and is a very good young coach, He is someone that I trust, and trust is a big thing.

“He’s a friend; he’s a good coach; and he’s got some good ideas.

“Kev [Nancekivell] is staying on as first-team coach. He’s got a wealth of experience; been at the club for many years, well thought of here and the lads love him.

“We want good people around us and the feedback we’ve had about Rhys [Wilmot] and Kev has been good.

“I’m pleased to have them all. We are all looking forward to working with each other. 

“They won’t be yes men, saying “yes sir, no sir” – I want their opinions. We will disagree at times but ultimately we will come to an agreement and it’ll be ‘Let’s do it’.”