We look to guide Whitstable up the table, says boss Nicky Southall

WHITSTABLE TOWN manager Nicky Southall has acted swiftly in appointing experienced coach Steve Nolan, who joins the club as assistant manager.



Last week Nolan was first team coach under former Ramsgate manager Tim Dixon, although he previously served Whitstable three years ago under then manager Peter Nott, before departing after Nott back in October 2011.

Southall told www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk: “Steve brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of football at this level and I’m sure will integrate well within the club’s management structure.

“This is an exciting opportunity for both Steve and I as we look to guide Whitstable up the table and improve our current standings which clearly has to be our first and immediate priority.

“Steve watched the club recently and was clearly impressed with some of the raw and emerging young talent at the club, which highlights the success of the under 21 development squad led by Bob Reardon.”

Chairman Gary Johnson, meanwhile, welcomed Southall’s decisive and prompt action in complimenting and building a new football management team after Jason Lillis quit the club earlier in the week.

“Steve is well known here at the club and a very welcomed addition,” said Mr Johnson.

“He’s a safe and steady experienced pair of hands. His appointment may also help to attract further talented individuals to the club’s cause.”

Whitstable Town are in eighteenth-place in the Ryman League Division One South table with 30 points from 26 games (8 wins, 6 draws and 12 defeats) and are a point clear of the relegation zone.

Nolan will be in the dug-out alongside Southall when Whitstable Town welcome Kent rivals Folkestone Invicta tomorrow.

Neil Cugley’s side are in fifth-place in the league table with 56 points from 30 games and have been given a boost ahead of the Kent derby after chairman Mark Jenner agreed a new five-year lease with Shepway District Council to stay at Cheriton Road.

However, there will be a pitch inspection at 11:00 on the morning of the game.

Visit Whitstable Town’s website: www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk

Whitstable Town  v  Folkestone Invicta
Ryman League Division One South
Saturday 1^st March 2014
Kick Off 3:00pm
at The Belmont, Belmond Road, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1QP