CHAIRMAN Steve Goode is taking criticism of under-fire Worcester City boss Ashley Vincent “with a pinch of salt”.

With City sat 15th in the Midland Football League Premier Division the summer appointment has faced calls for his head from frustrated supporters.

It has been a baptism of fire for Vincent since stepping up from being assistant to John Snape last season, tackling many of the fancied sides early on.

And while Goode shares the dismay of fans, he is adamant Vincent is the right man for the job ahead of tonight’s trip to league leaders Sporting Khalsa in the Midland Football League Cup second round (7.45).

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“I think people have to understand where we are and what league we’re in,” said Goode.

“Our budget does not match those of other teams in this league, that’s no excuse and things haven’t been going the way we want them to but I have absolutely no qualms with Ash, Marlon (Walters, assistant manager) and Gaz (Rogers, coach).

“I think they have put out a decent team that tries to play good football. I think we are sometimes a bit too honest for this league but I am pleased with the players we have.

“I genuinely think this management team will take the club up the league.”

Asked if Vincent’s position should be considered as safe, Goode said: “As far as I am concerned. We did have a board meeting and things were discussed but as far as the directors are concerned Ash is doing a good job for the club.

“Results are important but Ash is new to management and I think he has to be given time to get a team together and that some of the players he has bought to this club have been a credit to him.

“It speaks volumes that we are having approaches for players every week. That’s the problem in this league, 10 years ago Worcester City would grab all the players around because they supposedly had the money but now teams from higher leagues are coming in for our lads.

“The good thing is that Ash has a lot of players who want to be here, he deserves credit for that and so do the lads.

“I understand people are running down Ash and certain players but one week that happens and the next we win and he is the best manager we have ever had.

“I take it with a pinch of salt, I do understand the frustration but people need to realise where we are, this is not a Conference North team and we would expect better players if it was.

“Ash has a squad of players he thinks and we think can win this league. Unfortunately we have not had the rub of the green but I think if people stick by Ash things will change.

“People don’t realise how Ash, Marlon and Gaz work so hard to get the best for Worcester City.

“If we had thousands in the bank and Ash was spending a budget of £5,000 or £10,000-per-week we most probably would change things because the results have not been there but people have to realise what we have.

“He is doing the best he can for this football club.”

City suffered a 4-0 defeat at Noose Lane with defender Craig Jones sent off in that league fixture.

Khalsa qualified for this stage by beating Haughmond 5-1 with City receiving a bye in the first round.

Matches go straight to penalties if level after 90 minutes.