David Kerslake insists that Ebbsfleet boss Josh Wright will be a top manager.

Wright’s had a tough start to his managerial career with the Fleet, taking over a side low on confidence and quality at the wrong end of the National League.

It’s not been easy results-wise but the performances have improved dramatically and assistant boss Kerslake predicts brighter times ahead.

“Make no mistake about it, Josh will manage at a very high level,” stated Kerslake.

“He’s got game knowledge, players like him and he’s a born leader. Josh took the team over in a difficult position and he’s driving it forward so he’ll be absolutely fine.

“He’s got the lot. He’s got charisma as well, which is a big factor. You need that at whatever level you’re working at. You’ve got to show there’s a passion, leadership, independence. He’ll go on and do extremely well.”

Kerslake’s known Wright since watching him during his time in Charlton’s academy while Kerslake was coaching at Tottenham.

He’s managed him at Gillingham and then again at Ebbsfleet before Wright switched from player to manager in December.

But there’s one thing that’s surprised the experienced Kerslake about the new boss.

“It was tough for Josh to come in after Harry [Watling] left but he’s galvanised the players,” added Kerslake.

“What’s really surprised me is I thought that I would probably be out there [taking the] coaching quite a bit. But it’s not, Josh is taking the bull by the horns.

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“He’s out there and he’s getting his sessions in, getting his ideas. He’s drumming it into the players, doing walkthroughs, patterns of play with them - and the evidence is there, the players have responded to him.

“He’s a hands-on manager, he’s in his tracksuit in the middle of the pitch and I’m handing out balls, bibs and cones - which is fine at my age now!

“I love working with him. We go back a long way and he’s a real competitor and we’ll continue that to the very last kick.”

Kerslake previously served at Ebbsfleet as Watling’s assistant. When Watling left, it appeared that Kerslake would also depart but Wright was adamant he wanted the former Tottenham and Swindon defender to remain.

“I’ve normally always gone whenever the manager’s gone,” said Kerslake. “I’ve always gone when they have.

“But I had a phone call from Damian Irvine (chief executive) and he said that he’s going to offer Josh the job, but he wants me to stay. And Josh will only take it if I'm prepared to stay on.

“I did speak to Harry about it. Harry said absolutely no problem whatsoever, and then I spoke to Josh.

“He said, I think that you and I can take this forward. And I said, absolutely.”

Ebbsfleet, who drew 0-0 at home to Forest Green Rovers in midweek, are away to Wealdstone in the National League on Saturday.