After all the off-field drama of the last 12 months – going back to last pre-season, when the very future of the club was uncertain – Maloney would be forgiven for being ready for a long break.
“No, I’m still full of energy, and there’s still so much to do,” he said with a grin. “I’ll assess the team as soon as I can, and all of the squad building needs to take place.
“Obviously, when you look at the away form this year, that needs work.
Thus, I have a tonne of work to do in order to be ready for the upcoming year.
“We’d have been, what, six points off sixth place right now with the deduction?”After the Blackpool victory in March, during the international break, we were five points out of sixth position.
“The task is to see if we can get closer to that sixth spot by the international break in March of next year. That’s what I do.”
Maloney said, “I hope not!” in response to the question of whether this summer would turn out to be as exciting as last year.
“I’ve had to exercise patience since I have a relatively young squad, many of whom are in their first season.
“I’m going to be more picky next season.
“The young boys have had brilliant seasons, but I aim to be much more demanding for sure.”
