Stevens happy to help at Tooting (From Your Local Guardian)

Stevens happy to help at Tooting

10:05am Monday 16th August 2010 in

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Barry Stevens admits he is unlikely to start up front for Tooting when they open their Ryman Premier league campaign this weekend, despite his hat-trick against Whitehawk on Saturday.

Stevens notched his treble in the Terrors’ 6-3 victory in their final pre-season fixture - acting as a stand-in striker with Rob Haworth on holiday.

But the midfielder by trade reckons it will be back to his recognised central position when Tooting host Hendon on Saturday.

Stevens said: “I used to play up front when I was younger, and it worked out pretty well for me at the weekend.

“If the boss wants to play me as a striker I am happy with that, but to be honest I think I will be in midfield when the season starts.

“It is great to know we have goals through the team though, and I will certainly be looking to get my share this season.”

Karl Beckford (two) and Phil Williams were also on the scoresheet against the Ryman Division One South side.

And former Carshalton star Stevens revealed the attacking intentions of Tooting boss Mark Beard was one of the keys to him switching to Imperial Fields.

He added: “Mark likes to play football and I want to be part of that.

“I also have quite a few friends here, like Rob Haworth and Luke Garrard, and it was a pretty easy decision to come here.

“There is a great team spirit here and I think we are set to do well this campaign.”

The labourer will also have an eye on the Robins’ results this time around, and Stevens accepts he has one eye on the clash at Colston Avenue on September 18.

He added: “It was my decision to leave Carshalton and I do not have a problem with that.

“I did well there, and I would like to think I would get a good reception when I go back.

“Whether I will though is a different matter.”

Tooting & Mitcham’s next three fixtures: Aug 21 Hendon (h), 23 Wealdstone (a), 27 Cray Wanderers (a)