Canterbury City unveil Simon Austin as their new boss

Friday 27th April 2012

CANTERBURY City chairman Tim Clark says the appointment of Simon Austin as their new player-manager is a really positive appointment for the club.

Striker Austin, who has just had a very short spell with Kent League champions Herne Bay, has been named as player-manager and will bring with him Andrew Douglas as head coach and Jimmy Strouts as his assistant.

Mr Clark issued the following statement to the club website www.canterburycityfc.com.

“The board feel that this is a really positive appointment for the club. We want to build upon a solid return to the Kent League this season.

“Simon’s previous professional experience as a player and the fact that he has himself also won as a player the Kent League on three previous occasions and Ryman South twice is I hope going to give us an edge next season.

“We have some good youngsters coming through and I am sure Simon will be able to get the best out of them.”

On the fact that this is Austin’s first appointment to a senior management position, Mr Clark added: “As a club we are all about giving someone with the right approach, determination and ideas a chance.

"We believe Simon is the right person for the job but of course brings with him experience in Andrew and Jimmy.

"Personally I am looking forward to working with them as we get ready for next season.”

Ninth-placed Canterbury, with 12 league wins this season, complete their Kent Hurlimann Football League campaign with a trip to sixth-placed Tunbridge Wells tomorrow.

Visit Canterbury City’s website: www.canterburycityfc.com