The news comes after the Cobras parted company with Dave Hoole and his assistant Dale Spragg by mutual consent as Hoole's work commitments meant that he had been unable to attend games in the last month.

A statement on https://www.clipstonefc.co.uk reads: “The club committee is immensely grateful to both Dave and Dale for their hard work, enthusiasm and integrity that they have always shown since they joined the club in Summer 2019.”

Chairman Richard Clarey added: "Thank you for all the time, work and dedication Dave and Dale have given to our football club.

"We are in a much better place due to your guidance and commitment."

Funk comes in with an impressive CV, having managed clubs throughout non-League football, including Rainworth Miners Welfare, Scarborough Athletic and AFC Mansfield in the NCEL, and securing a number of promotions.

Cobras vice chairman Paul Griffiths said: "We are absolutely delighted that Rudy has decided to join us and come on board here at the Lido Ground at such an exciting time for the club.

"He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience and his proven track record speaks for itself."

Funk has also introduced Graeme Rodger, formerly at Basford United, as his assistant, along with retaining the Cobras' goalkeeper coach Tony Wigfull and club physio Luke Randle to complete the backroom staff line-up.

Funk added: "There are some big plans ahead. The chairman has a plan, the club's got a plan, they want to get the community involved and, to me, I think that was the biggest attraction.

"The community has supported me over the years and if I can give something back that would be fantastic.

"It's that buzz, it's that excitement that everyone at the club told me they want to create here, and what they want to achieve, I think the vision is something unbelievable”.