Ex-Arundel boss Hull admits surprise at departure but pays tribute to players and staff

Hull had been in charge at Mill Road since the 2017-18 campaign.

The Mullets were relegated from the Southern Combination Premier Division by virtue of goal difference in 2018-19.

Arundel have since seen two consecutive Division 1 league campaigns curtailed by the pandemic.

Former Bosham boss Jason Mines was appointed as the new first team manager at Mill Road in a move announced just hours after Hull’s departure.

Ex-Arundel manager Richard Towers will be Mines’ assistant, while Greg Robinson has joined the coaching team from Selsey.

Hull told the Gazette: “It was an overriding feeling of disappointment and a little bit of a surprise but nothings given in football as we know.

“I got the call Saturday afternoon and was advised the club had decided to have a change of direction.

“I want to put on record my thanks to the players who have been with us over the past four years and in particular the management team we had in place.

“Rick Jarvis, Joss Parsons and Nick Tolhurst have been incredible during my tenure.

“Huge thanks to Ben Hornsby-Smith, Jake Edwards, Charlie Hawken, Joe Fitzpatrick and Paul Nicholls to name just a few who have given so much to the cause.

“I’m hopeful to be back in the game sooner rather than later.”

Hull said Jarvis had been released after ten years’ service at the club.

He added: “I believe the new regime tried to retain Joss but he has left too. If the right opportunity presents itself I’m sure I will be back (in football), hopefully with Rick, Joss and Nick by my side. They are all top drawer.”

Arundel had taken part in the recent SCFL Division 1 Shield competition and Hull said he had been using the matches to start thinking about his squad for next season.

Meanwhile the club have announced four pre-season friendlies.

They host Baffin Milton Rovers on Tuesday, July 6, Dorking on Saturday 10, go to East Preston on Saturday 24 and visit Pagham on Tuesday 27.