Transformations in store for County Ground

A column written by Swindon Link STFC correspondent Alfie Howlett

As I sit down to pen this latest column, Town find their season hanging by a thread after a defeat to Newport County.

However, instead of second guessing where Swindon will currently lie I'd like to focus this column on matters off the pitch.

In previous years this topic has been shrouded with negativity.

However, now thanks to the fantastic work of Clem Morfuni and Rob Angus, this topic is nothing but positive.

There's no better marker of the progress than the recent plans to redevelop the County Ground. Swindon's home since 1896 is set for a radical £22.5 million makeover.

The exciting new plans include a 5000-seater Town End, a club museum, and a hotel.

It's not the first time that Town have revealed plans to transform their home, but this time it feels different. Already under Clem Morfuni we've seen that if he says something then it will happen.

With the stadium lacking years of investment the plans couldn't have come at a better time.

Not only will it suit a higher level of football, but the extra additions will also add some much needed revenue. The County Ground could certainly become a pillar of the community for years to come.

Another marker of the progress would be recruitment. It must be said that despite having his hands tied behind his back, director of football Ben Chorley has done a remarkable job.

Gone are the days when Swindon found themselves scrapping around the loan market on deadline day with no real plan.

This season the statergy is clear - a focus on young players who have potential to develop under Garner in order to be sold on for a tidy profit. There's no finer example than midfielder Ricky Aguiar.

The 21-year-old was plucked from Isthmian League outfit, Worthing FC. Aguiar was thrown in at the deep end, midway through the season due to an injury crisis.

After a promising spell at Chippenham the youngster made an immediate impact at Town, netting twice against Walsall.

Although inconsistent at times the future certainly looks bright for Aguiar. As well as youngsters, Town have also managed to pull off big name signings in Jonny Williams and Louis Reed.

With the embargo lifted the next transfer window could be one of great excitement as Chorley and his team get to flex their muscles.

It's fair to say that the foundations of a successful club have been set in stone.When Morfuni first took over the aim was the championship, but more crucially the objective was survival.

As football fans we can all be prone to short-sightedness as we crave quick success, but this Town project was never scheduled to finish overnight.