Kaiman loves the competition

Competition for places – what every manager wants, and what Stafford Rangers striker Kaiman Anderson says he thrives off.

Anderson banged in 13 goals last season – the club’s top scorer – and was a crucial member of Matt Hill’s side.

The 26-year-old who joined the Rangers in the latter of the 2021-22 season has been retained for the next term, and previously said he thinks the Rangers are capable of great things.

The forward likes the competitive nature for places in the side, when asked if he likes the competition saying: “I thrive off it, you need people pushing you.

“You can’t rest on your laurels and think you’re going to start every week, you need to be performing every week.

“Regarding first names on the team sheets, I’m always going to make sure that’s me.”

Kaiman – a team-player, if his team wins he’s happy. Although not overly ecstatic with his goal tally for last season and wanting more, he sees past that and is happy to offer more to his side than just goals.

“I was pleased to an extent,” said Anderson.

“I did score a few goals but I think what I bring to the team is a bit more than goals, obviously hard-work and holding the ball up, things like that.

“I would Like to add a few more and get to the 15, close to 20 goal mark, but if I score 13,14 and we’re in and around the play-offs then I know I’ve done my job well.

“I just want the team to play well, it is a team game. It can’t all be about me, big number nine scoring goals.

“If we win 1-0 and I haven’t scored then I’m happy. If we win 5-0 and I haven’t scored then I’m still happy.

“As long as I’ve made my mark and helped the team to win then that’s all that matters to me.”

Anderson, known for his relentless running and effort on the pitch, holding the ball up well for others, and always a threat to the opposition’s goal.

The forward found himself playing on the wing at times for the Rangers last season and despite his role mainly being central, he doesn’t mind his time out wide.

He said: “I’m just happy to play.

“I’ve played the majority of my career up front, but I did append a couple of seasons out on the right.

“I don’t mind it, getting the ball, running at people and crossing it in.

“Preferably I would be the main man.”

Stafford have been confirmed members of the Northern Premier League once again for next season, finding themselves the most southern team of the league.

Anderson expressed his views on this saying: “I’m quite happy with it to be fair.

“I think if I’m being totally honest it’s a more competitive league than the Southern League.

“The grounds you go to are a bit nicer and it’s got a bit more history around it.

“I think it’ll be a good challenge again but I’m happy we’re staying in it.”

The forward is delighted to be returning to Marston Road next season after completing his first full season at the club and he’s certainly missing the action as the players take a break after the year’s conclusion.

He said on re-signing: “I was very happy. I love working with the gaffer and Dale.

“It’s a good core group, all the lads are sound. I’m happy that we’ve kept the spine of the team.

“I got it done very quickly, as soon as the season finished.

“I can’t wait to get back. Just watching the football last night, I can’t wait to get back and scoring some goals.

“Get me back.”

By Luke Powell

STAFFORD RANGERS FC