I requested a manual, no longer an option apparently.
However the new generation of auto gearboxes have been much improved, i’m yet to try the latest ZF autobox but those i speak to rate it highly.
Glad for you that you have a boss who tries to please and retain his staff (wise man that), another small haulier whose drivers i speak to regularly also tries his best to get manuals if the driver due a new lorry requests one, some makes this is no longer possible of course.