Sheppey United appoint Jono Richardson as Ernie Batten's assistant manager

SHEPPEY UNITED manager Ernie Batten has promoted Jono Richardson from player-coach to his assistant manager.

“Promoting Jono ensures that we can keep building on the foundations that are already in place and working,” Batten told www.sheppeyunitedfc.co.uk.



“He knows the clubs strategy inside out and he is both respected and supported by players and staff at the club.

“He has already played an important role over the past couple of years and we believe he is ready for the job.”

Richardson (pictured above) has enticed former Beckenham Town centre-half Jez Hammond to Holm Park.

“When Jono contacted me it was a no brainer for me,” said Hammond, who has also played for Bearsted.

“After playing against Sheppey last season, I couldn’t believe how good the support was from the fans and now I can’t wait to meet up with the boys and get started pre-season.”

Hicham Akhazzan, Ian Batten, Dan Bradshaw, Darren Cooper, Tariq Ibrahim, Aaron Lee Wharton and John Ralph have all been retained, while Luke Girt has already signed for Bostik South East Division side Whitstable Town and Will Thomas has also left the club.

Cooper, meanwhile, has revealed he will be out until September, having just gone under the knife.

He told the club website:  “All went well and the surgeon has said he was really happy with the outcome.

“It’s early stages but I’ve started very light physio with main physio being started in around two weeks’ time.  If I make expected progress I should be fully fit for September.  I’m really looking forward to being out there again.”

Sheppey United finished in seventh-place in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table last season.

Visit Sheppey United’s website: www.sheppeyunitedfc.co.uk