Cray Valley manager Kevin Watson confirms the departure of coach Kevin James

CRAY VALLEY (Paper Mills) manager Kevin Watson has confirmed the departure of his coach Kevin James last night.

“It goes without saying that Jamesey has been an integral part of the clubs success in recent times,” Watson told the club website.

“His passion for all aspects of football has been contagious, with his knowledge and experience infiltrating through the roots of Cray Valley Football Club.

“Alongside the obvious successes, the unconditional work that he has done with the youth structure has consolidated a pathway to build upon.

“Without limitation and for all of the above, I would like to thank Jamesy for his many contributions.

“Whilst Jamesy works in the football sector full-time, he will no doubt be a valuable asset to any club or organisation in the game.”

James said in a statement: “Unfortunately the Cray Valley road ends for me.  I have had some great memories, winning the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division title and reaching the FA Vase Final at Wembley Stadium.

“Throughout this journey I have worked with some great people and staff that I have learned from.  All were willing to listen, learn and apply themselves in a way that made it easy to develop talent and coach a dominant, exciting style of football.  This, I am proud of.

“Thanks to those that supported me during my time and I wish nothing but the best for the club in the future.”

A club statement added: “Cray Valley (PM) Football Club announce that club coach Kevin James has left the club with immediate effect.

“Jamesey, irascible on the sidelines but a totally likeable character off the pitch, helped manager Kevin Watson through one of its most successful periods and the club is sure that he will not be off the touchline for too long.

“We wish Kevin the very best of luck for the future and give considerable thanks for his input to our success over the last few seasons.”

The Millers have recently lost top spot in the Isthmian League South East Division and are in fourth-place, having collected 39 points from 21 games, five points adrift of leaders Hastings United.

Watson’s side have gone six games without a win in all competitions and lost 3-2 at Burgess Hill Town on 3 January 2022.

Cray Valley welcome Sevenoaks Town to Middle Park Avenue on Saturday.  Micky Collins’ side picked up their first win in six after beating fellow strugglers Hythe Town 3-1 at Greatness Park on Monday afternoon.

Visit Cray Valley’s website: www.crayvalleypmfc.com