BEES BOSS AJAY'S NO FISH OUT OF WATER

AJAY Ashanike says he’s ready to become a Step 4 manager – and has thanked predecessor Darren Manning for putting his name forward for the Basildon United gig.

- Matt Badcock

Ashanike, 35, has left Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division Fisher to become new manager at the Isthmian Division One North Bees.

The post was left vacant by Manning after he took over at boyhood club Grays Athletic last month.

Former Tower Hamlets boss Ashanike has a reputation in Non-League for developing young footballers as well as the on-field success in recent seasons at the Fish.

But he feels the timing is now right to step up a level and is convinced the Bees are a perfect fit.

“Darren is a good friend of mine and he’s part of the people who put my name forward that it’s time for me to step up,” Ashanike told The NLP.

“I can’t thank him enough. He’s left a good, good squad for us to come into.

“He is someone I respect really highly and I respect his opinion as well. He’s done a really good job and my job now is to continue where he’s left off and make Basildon fans proud.”

And with his new side fourth in the table ahead of yesterday’s trip to league leaders Lowestoft Town, Ashanike is aiming for a seamless transition.