Robbie Herrera answers SOS call

A new, but very familiar, face has been helping out Torquay United interim boss Aaron Downes on the training ground this week, as the Gulls prepare to welcome Hampton & Richmond on Devon Day at Plainmoor.

Head of Youth Robbie Herrera has joined the first-team coaching staff to assist Downes, with captain Asa Hall now close to a return to full fitness. Herrera was assistant manager to Kevin Nicholson between 2015-17 and also racked up almost 150 appearances as a United player ins spells from 1992 to 2001.

Hall has been helping Downes with coaching duties while recovering from injury but he is now ready for selection, and Herrera will return to a first-team arena he knows so well.

“It’s great to have Asa back available and the other experienced heads available,” said Downes. “It does present me with a few problems on the coaching side. The rest of the staff all support me fantastically, but I did need someone extra for the coaching, so I’ve moved Robbie Herrera from the youth team to the first team.

“He is helping me during the week, so the players aren’t just hearing my voice. Robbie will be fantastic because he’s vastly experienced, knows the division and has an understanding of the squad.

“At the same time, he brings fresh eyes and he’s got the club at heart. I’ve known Robbie for a long time, our relationship is strong, he’s a very good coach and I’m glad to have him on board.

“Asa will still help but he’s also a very good captain, and I’m very happy to have him back in the squad.”