Tuesday 12 August 2014 09:59, UK
Jose Riga admits he faces 'big, big, big difficulties' in trying to piece together a competitive squad at Blackpool.
Having inherited just eight senior players over the summer, Riga has been working tirelessly on the pursuit of fresh faces.
He was, however, informed prior to Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship opener with Nottingham Forest that he had just nine at his disposal.
I’m just trying to get on with doing my job, even with big, big, big difficulties. I’m trying to be a football manager and not solve administration problems.
Paperwork was hastily completed to ensure the game could go ahead, with registration issues affecting six of those in a travelling party of 21.
Riga concedes that the situation is far from ideal but maintains that he will not be walking away from a challenge.
He said in the Blackpool Gazette: “On Saturday morning I received the news we only had nine players. We managed to get some registered in the morning to have what we had during the game.
“I’m just trying to get on with doing my job, even with big, big, big difficulties.
“I’m trying to be a football manager and not solve administration problems.
“It’s more about frustration for me. I’m smiling but I wasn’t happy on Saturday, mainly because I wanted to win the game.
“I expected more players to be available. I’m trying to do my best but I have limits here.”
Riga, who was able to name just four substitutes at the City Ground, added: “There are two options in life, you can complain and be angry or just deal with it.
“If the players had seen me getting angry, then the result could have been much worse.
“If I don’t behave and respond properly, I can’t expect my players to do so.
“I told them we will come out of all these problems stronger. I’m okay. This will all make me stronger and I’ve told that to my players."
