Defender Fabian Wilnis has confirmed that he has become involved in the coaching side of the game in recent weeks. The Dutchman is out of contract at the end of the season and TWTD spotted him joining academy coach Steve Greaves on the bench as the reserves took on Grays Athletic last week.

Wilnis, 37, hadn't planned to become a coach, but says he has enjoyed his involvement so far: “I did not realise how much satisfaction I would get out of coaching.

“Working with young players at the club has proved extremely eye opening. I love it. I have had 20 years in the game. Why throw away all that experience?

“The plan is that I will be working with the U16 side, although this has not started yet, and in the summer I plan to gain official coaching qualifications.”

Wilnis is now eyeing a possible future in management but plans to progress slowly through the ranks rather than taking on a big job straight away like Town boss Jim Magilton. The former De Graafshap man is also considering work in the media or as an agent when his playing days are over.

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