CHRIS Louis has turned down the chance to manage the Great Britain speedway side.Evening Star Witches skipper Louis was asked by the British Speedway Promoters' Association to take charge of the Great Britain side on a caretaker basis this season.

Mike Bacon

CHRIS Louis has turned down the chance to manage the Great Britain speedway side.

Evening Star Witches skipper Louis was asked by the British Speedway Promoters' Association to take charge of the Great Britain side on a caretaker basis this season.

But he has reluctantly had to turn the job down, a job relinquished by Poole's Neil Middleditch last week.

“It is nice to be asked, but quite honestly I am not able to give it 100 per cent,” Louis said.

“I would also need 100 per cent backing and I'm not saying I wouldn't get that, but really it is a job that requires 100 per cent. And at this moment in time I'm not able to give that with what I have on at Ipswich.”

Certainly the fact Louis has been considered for the role is a fillip for the Evening Star Witches skipper, who is being included more and more in the future of the sport.

However at yesterday's press and practice day, Louis was more interested in the hopes of the 2008 Evening Star Witches than the Great Britain job. And he is confident it will be a better year than 2007.

“Last season we had a good bunch of lads, but to be perfectly honest language difficulties didn't help,” Louis said.

“The likes of Zibi Suchecki and Marcin Rempala started okay, but just couldn't progress because we couldn't communicate properly.

“Communication is a big factor and can make quite a difference.

“I want this team to go through the season chasing the play-offs. This year we are perfectly capable.

“Yes it will rely on rider's progressing, but we have, in my view, the strongest reserve pairing in the league and that could be very beneficial.”

Louis is starting his 20th season in the sport and although is predicted to take over from father John as promoter at the club, that time does not seem to be set in stone yet.

“If you enjoy something, why not keep going,” Chris added.