Cray Valley unveil James Collins as their new manager

CRAY VALLEY have unveiled James Collins as their new manager.

Collins guided Lordswood to their highest ever finish of fourth-place in the Southern Counties East Football League last season but has been unveiled as Paul Gross’s replacement tonight.

Collins brings with him his number two Brad Sandeman, who was also Martin Larkin’s assistant manager when Tunbridge Wells reached The FA Vase Final at Wembley Stadium three years ago.

A Cray Valley statement said: “We have tonight appointed James Collins as first team manager.

“Collins, who guided Lordswood to their highest ever placing in the Southern Counties East Football League, replaces Paul Gross who resigned at the end of the season.

“Collins will be assisted at Badgers by former Northampton Town, Maidstone United, Port Vale, Rotherham United and Hereford United defender Brad Sandeman.

“We would like to welcome James and Brad to the club and wish them the very best of luck in their new roles with the Millers.”

Cray Valley finished last season’s campaign in tenth-place and have already lost the services of winger Rory Hill, who has signed for league rivals Ashford United.

Lordswood now begin the search for a new manager after Collins submitted his resignation just before taking over at the Eltham-based club.

A Lordswood statement said: “We were notified this evening by James of his resignation with immediate effect.

“He has informed us that it was a role that he could not turn down as he believes it will be good for his personal progression.

“We would like to place on record our thanks to James for the effort and time he put in to Lordswood during his tenure at Martyn Grove and whilst we are disappointed and shocked to hear of his resignation we wish him all the best with his future endeavours.”

Interested candidates should email their CV’s to lordswoodfc@live.co.uk in order to be considered for the Lordswood managerial vacancy.

Visit Cray Valley’s website:  www.cray-valley.co.uk

Visit Lordswood’s website: www.lordswoodfc.co.uk