NEW permanent Pickering Town boss Tony Hackworth has outlined his revival plans - and they include himself.

After a three-match unbeaten run as caretaker, Hackworth found his baptism as successor to the sacked Mitch Cook fiery. The Pikes crashed 4-1 at Albion Sports in the Northern Counties East League premier division.

Now they host Cleethorpes tomorrow in what will be his first home game in full charge.

The defeat a week ago has merely increased his resolve to revive the Pikes.

Said the former Leeds United, Notts County and Scarborough striker: “The lads responded really well since I first came in on a caretaker basis to take charge from Mitch.

“It’s my job now to get the best out of what I have got, but if it means I might have to bring in one or two new players to strengthen, then I will.

“The main task now is to get us up the table as quickly as possible.”

A move into management has always been part of Hackworth’s long-term plan, though not envisaged just yet.

He added: “I’ve always looked at going into the management side. I just did not think it would be this early.

“But now that Pickering have given me the opportunity then I am so glad to be given the job.”

And while he expected to have a watching brief in his first few matches in permanent charge, he still believed he could contribute as a player.

He explained: “I’m 35 at the end of this season but I won’t be hanging up my boots just yet.

“If needed I will be available to play. I will be keeping myself fit.”