MONK THE MAN TO TRANSFORM UNITED

The latest incumbent to the Polegrove hot-seat faces a tough task to lift the club away from second-from-bottom of Sussex Division Three but has the experience and credentials to do so.

Monk has previously taken Whyteleafe into the Ryman League and lifted the former Bexhill Amateur Athletic Club up several divisions in the East Sussex League. He replaces Len Watkins who resigned last week after 16 months in charge.

Harris was deeply impressed by what Monk had to offer and the panel of voters decided that he was the pick of the four people interviewed. Former Fulham under-18 boss Sid Rudgley pulled out of his interview due to his wife's illness but will become a committee member and a coach.

A delighted Harris said: "I think we've got a good combination. I'm hoping Tony's going to be able to turn this club around. I think we need new blood in the club. There are a number of players that are needed and we've heard that already one or two would like to sign for us. We're looking to make a move forward. We've got a number of good people on the committee and it all looks as though it bodes well for the future.

"I did think he's very knowledgeable and he certainly came across as being very keen with a good open minded attitude to getting support from a number of different areas. He was open to having Sid on board which is great for the club because he can attract the David Williams'."

Monk will travel with the team to a demanding clash at St Francis Rangers tomorrow (Saturday) in a watching brief capacity. No fresh injuries have arisen and a similar squad is expected to be selected. The new manager's first game will be an intriguing Sussex Intermediate Cup third round tie at home to Old Varndeanians on Saturday week.

Bexhill December fixtures (subject to alteration): Saturday 6 Old Varndeanians (h) Sussex Intermediate Cup third round 1.30pm, Saturday 13 Upper Beeding (h) 1.45pm, Saturday 20 Franklands Village (h) 1.45pm, Saturday 27 Newhaven (a) 1.45pm, Saturday January 3 Wadhurst United (h) 1.45.