GARETH Ainsworth says there is no drug that could replace the buzz of management – even if it means DVD dates with his assistant instead of playtime with his children.

The 39-year-old is revelling in his role as caretaker-manager and has made no secret of the fact he wants the top job on a permanent basis.

No-one could ever question Ainsworth’s desire on the pitch – and the same can now be said for management.

The Blues boss travelled down to London on a scouting mission at an under 21s game between QPR and Brighton on Wednesday night.

And he has also had to explain to his children that they’ll have to put Thursday afternoon playtime on hold so daddy can watch DVDs of the Blues’ upcoming opponents with assistant manager Richard Dobson.

He said: “I was at QPR - Brighton u21s watching that game on Tuesday night, when everyone is tucked up in bed I’m out watching games. But I’m enjoying it, I’m buzzing, there’s no drug like this.

“Instead of Thursday afternoon in the park with the kids I’ll be in a room watching a DVD with Dobbo and Lee Harrison. I know where I’d rather be but I know what I have to do.

“Saturday was the worst night of the season, it really hurt and I couldn’t sleep. I probably still won’t be able to sleep tonight but it will be a better feeling.”

As the Free Press revealed yesterday, Wycombe Wanderers Trust spokesman David Cook said Ainsworth is in pole position to land the managerial post vacated by Gary Waddock.

In his programme notes, club chairman Don Woodward wrote: “Gareth was the obvious choice to take caretaker charge of the team due to his excellent knowledge of the club and its players, as well as his clear passion and motivation to succeed in a managerial role.

“He is of course a very strong contender for the full-time position, but we must keep our options open and we will take our time to access the high calibre of applications that we have received to ensure we select the best man for the job.”