SWINDON Town director of football Tim Sherwood says he is only focused on the immediate future of keeping the team in League One as he looks to remedy previous recruitment mistakes.

Speaking on a rare occasion since joining the club back in November, the club having turned down numerous interview requests, Sherwood gave some insight into his role at the club in a live question and answer session on Facebook with Squawka Football, in partnership with the computer game Football Manager.

The 47-year-old highlighted that Town’s policy of buying players was one of the main reasons for their predicament this season, with the club sitting on the cusp of the relegation zone.

Since being appointed by close friend and Swindon chairman Lee Power, Sherwood has been tasked with recruiting players to help turn their season around and oversaw eight arrivals during the January transfer window, six of which were on loan.

Whilst admitting that attracting players midway through the season is less than ideal, the former Aston Villa and Tottenham boss is hoping that his players have an immediate impact and help to turn Town’s fortunes around.

“It’s chalk and cheese,” he said, when asked the difference between his previous managerial roles and being director of football.

“When you’re a manager, you’re there all the time and you’re taking care of all the playing side.

“It’s a different level you have got to get accustomed to as well.

“It’s a good club and it’s a different direction for me to go.

“We’ve got good coaches there at the football club and I don’t think what they’ve done, certainly since the beginning of the season, is recruited very well.

“We’ve had to try and put that right during this window and eight signings; nobody has made more than eight signings this window but those boys have to settle very quickly and get the results the loyal fans at Swindon deserve.”

Upon Sherwood's arrival at Town in November, chairman Lee Power revealed that his good friend would be in charge of all football matters at the club, saying: "He will head up all aspects. That will be transfers, the way that we play, the formations and the picking of the team”

However, head coach Luke Williams and assistant Ross Embleton have continued to perform media duties, with Sherwood remaining silent on his role at the club and the fortunes of the team since his opening press conference.

With Swindon set to face three of the four sides currently occupying the relegation places in the next seven games, as well as an important derby against Oxford United this Sunday, Sherwood admits the club can’t look too far ahead.

Whilst admitting results have not been good, he appears optimistic that he can help steer the club to League One safety.

“You only look at short term,” he added.

“At the moment, with the position we’re in, it’s to stay in the league and build for next year.

“Scouting and recruitment is key. It’s key to any football club’s success – it’s about the players.

“A lot goes on in the background but the fans don’t want to be bothered with that and I wouldn’t want to try and bore them with that.

“All they’re interested in is that team winning on a Saturday afternoon and we understand that.”