ASIAN talent is finally on the cusp of making its mark on the local soccer pitches, says Chris Dolby, Sheffield FC's fledgling manager and the first Asian to play professionally in the Football League.
Speaking on video to The Star website, the ex-Rotherham United midfielder said he thought it was only a matter "of time before we see young Asian players not only playing in the Football League but also at our level, Unibond, Conference North."
He said the community programmes run by professional clubs - he himself heads Barnsley FC's version - was reaping benefits.
"Asian players are getting involved in Academies and in football and community programmes so it's only a matter of time till we see young scholars breaking into the first team."
Talking about the misconception that Asian youngsters do not always have the stature to play in football, he remarked that Deco, Chelsea's new multi-million pound signing and one of Europe's brightest stars, was of diminutive physical standing.
"If you are good enough you'll make it" he said.
Dolby said it had been a "fantastic opportunity" to take over the managership of Sheffield FC, a club which has an inclusive welcome-all policy.
"We're open to all. I am of Asian background my number two is Afro-Caribbean; we're a multi-cultural team which appeals to all fans - there are no barriers."
Dolby recognises an added responsibility in managing the oldest club in the world.
"When Dave McCarthy signed me two years ago I didn't fully realise what the club was about" he confessed.
"Having been here for two seasons, I know what it means to play for the oldest club in the world; know what sort of character you have to be. As a manager I'm really looking forward to the challenge."
Promotion from UniBond First Division South is the aim this season, he says.
"We have lost three players (but) brought in four quality players, so I think we've got to be knocking on the door to the play off spots and hopefully we can go one step further."
Last season had ended in disappointment, he said, reflecting on last May's penalty shoot out loss to Nantwich Town in the Play Off Final.
"It was the last kick off the game, penalty kicks...we missed out" he said.
"It is a lottery but when you are on the wrong side of the penalty shoot out, it is very disappointing. To miss out on promotion in that way was hard to swallow at the time but the lads have bounced back, they are working hard, looking fit and we go again this season and see what we can do."
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