NEW Great Harwood Town boss Denis Underwood sets off on the toughest challenge of his managerial career as he prepares for tomorrow's home clash with Burscough.

Town are currently nine points adrift at the foot of the table and require a dramatic change in fortune to avoid relegation.

And Underwood is fully aware of the harsh reality of Harwood's plight.

"It is a daunting challenge but I've watch them several times this season and believe they just need a break to get the ball rolling. I don't think it is beyond them," said Underwood.

The speed of his appointment took Underwood by surprise. He went to see the chairman on Tuesday, expecting to talk about the possibilities of taking the position, but did not expect to be offered the job there and then.

But Underwood was quick to accept the post, having forged close links with Harwood since his September departure from Clitheroe.

Underwood said: "I've always been looking to get back into the game and played for Great Harwood for two-and-a-half years when they were in the North West Counties League. I know most of their players here."

The Harwood boss hopes to strengthen his squad and has drawn up a list of possibilities, but initially wants to give the current players a chance.

"I have a long list of players who I would like to bring in and who I think may be available. But first of all I want to see what is available at the club. "I will be looking for the first two games to assess who we have, and who we need," said Underwood.

But new signings look imminent, if initially only to increase the size of the squad and provide greater competition for places and injury cover.

"The squad here is quite small and it doesn't leave a lot to call on, so we need to boost it."

In his four-and-a-half years at Clitheroe, Underwood was relatively successful guiding the Blues to the the FA Vase Final and finishing no lower than seventh in the league - with a third-place highlight in 1996/97.

Underwood is familiar with tomorrow's opponents as they were promoted from the North West Counties League last season.

"Their squad is very similar to last year's," said Underwood.

Harwood will have to guard against prolific strikers Robbie Cowley and Mark Wild, who dominate the Burscough goalscoring charts. Underwood will keep faith with assistant manager Andy Clarkson, who will pick the team for tomorrow's tie.

Paul Lynch is unavailable for tomorrow, and Paul Whalley is still recovering from an arm operation.

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