Woodman Says Bromley Left Their Summer Signings Too Late

Former Bromley manager Andy Woodman says the club acted too late in the summer transfer window, the period when clubs can sign new players.

Woodman made the comments on the BBC's 72+ EFL podcast. He said seven players that Bromley signed over one or two days late in the window "weren't good enough" for League One, the third tier of English football. A club that waits until the final days often has less time to find, check and bring in players who fit its plans.

Woodman had a long spell in charge at Bromley. He led the club to two promotions in five and a half years. Promotion means moving up a division, and each step brings tougher opponents and bigger crowds. His time in the job ended after the club won two of its first 10 League One matches.

He said he had only just signed a new contract when he was sacked. He also said that while he was at Bromley he received offers to manage clubs higher up the pyramid, the ladder of English football divisions. He said he stayed out of loyalty to the club.

Woodman was clear that he holds no grudge. He said he feels no animosity towards Bromley or the owner, Robin Stanton-Gleaves. He added that he is looking forward to his next job and hopes to put another club on the map.

The remarks give a rare look inside the pressure of a managerial sacking. Woodman's view of the summer window is a frank one. It is also a reminder that for a club outside the top flight, the quality of a few signings can shape a whole season.

You can hear the full discussion on the BBC Sport website.