New Chatham boss Miles aims for midtable

Thursday 08th June 2006

Phil Miles has been named as the new manager of Ryman League Chatham Town, writes James Brown – courtesy of www.favershamtownfc.co.uk
The 36-year-old takes over from Steve Binks who moves upstairs to join the board of the Maidstone Road club as director of youth development.

Miles takes on his first role in senior management with long-time pal Steve Best as his No 2, insisting: "I've been very patient waiting for my first opportunity as a manager and I'm thrilled that it's come with Chatham Town.

"I've had six very enjoyable years at the club as a player, reserve team manager and as Steve's assistant and now I'm looking forward to the challenge of being my own man in charge of the first team.

"Bestie has agreed to be my assistant and I'm thrilled about that, but he'll continue playing. We're both very excited about next season.

"I'd like to thank Steve Binks for all his help last season and wish him all the best in his new role. I can't think of anyone better to oversee the club's new Football Development School."

Miles, who lives in Northfleet, represented Faversham Town at youth,
reserve and first team level during almost a decade at Salters Lane and was a key member of the club's Kent League winning side in 1990.

He went on to Herne Bay where he picked up three more Kent League
crowns before following boss Tommy Sampson to Deal Town.

Former Abbey School pupil Miles moved to Chatham Town in 2000 and
captained the side to his fifth Kent League championship in 2001.

He went on to become Reserve team boss at the Chats and spent last
season as assistant manager to Binks.

Dad of two Miles believes that consolidating the club's position in a new-look Ryman League would represent a good first season in senior management.

He explained: "Sadly, we've lost a couple of players this summer so the new season is not going to be easy but I've been on the phone already trying to bring in some new faces so we'll have to wait and see.

"The Ryman's going to be strong next season but I'd like to think we can hold our own. Mid-table would be good for a first season."

Article courtesy of www.favershamtownfc.co.uk