Margate appoint Jay Saunders as their permanent manager: I’m really pleased to get an agreement sorted with the club. I make no secret of the fact the club is special to me as both a player and during my spell as manager last season

MARGATE have appointed Jay Saunders as their permanent first team manager.

 

The former Maidstone United manager and Margate midfielder took over from Steve Brown in January 2019 and guided the club towards safety in the Bostik Premier Division, finishing in 12^th place on 59 points.

Saunders was in charge for 14 games and stepped down following the last game of the season, a 4-3 win at bottom-of-the-table side Harlow Town.

A club statement, which was published on www.margate-fc.co.uk said: “Following success in turning last season around, the board always felt Jay would be an ideal fit for the manager’s position.  

“Negotiations to keep Jay at the club commenced in March but despite both the club and Jay knowing the partnership was a perfect fit, an agreement could not be reached at that time.

“Whilst both parties could not decide on terms, there was never any ill feeling and over the time period since, the club has remained in touch with Jay. 

“Those ongoing discussions came to fruition this weekend and the board were able to confirm a deal.”

Speaking on behalf of the board of directors, club chairman, Terry Painter said: “We are delighted to be able to inform supporters that Jay is here to stay.

“Jay has a strong connection with the club and didn't want the opportunity to slip away.

“Likewise, as a club, we wanted to secure the deal, given Jay's experience and excellent track record.

“We can now look forward to the 2019/20 campaign under Jay’s leadership. I think fans will be delighted with the news and we hope they’ll show their support and make the most of our season ticket offer over the next couple of weeks.

“It will be a busy summer and we are all excited to work together for the benefit of Margate Football Club, our supporters and the local community.”

Following his permanent appointment, Saunders is looking ahead to the new season.

He said:  “I’m really pleased to get an agreement sorted with the club. I make no secret of the fact the club is special to me as both a player and during my spell as manager last season.

“Whilst disappointed we couldn’t reach an initial agreement, with the benefit of the close season and some time, I feel this is right for me.

“I was delighted to keep the club up last season and now the hard work will begin to prepare for the new campaign. As a club we are looking to progress over the next few years, building a young talented squad that provides stability and steady progress. It’s a challenge I’m excited for and want to carry on building a buzz around the football club.”

Visit Margate’s website: www.margate-fc.co.uk