Funnell
took charge of the team on an interim basis for the final name games of the
season, helping them to avoid relegation.
He
told the club’s website: “I'm naturally excited to be given the opportunity to
manage at this level of football, at a club that means a lot to me, whilst only
being 32. The feeling on the final day of the season was one of the greatest
feelings I've ever had in football, although, I hope we're not similar position
this time next year.”
Funnell
previously played for the club under John Wilkinson and Terry Fleming, before
returning to the club in 2019.
He
takes on the role as men’s first team manager having helped the women’s first
team to a promotion and cup win, with another cup final on May 22nd to round
off his reign.
Chairman
Lee Griffin added: "We are delighted to agree terms with Chris, he has
been at the cornerstone of the club's progress off the field as Director of
Football and his success in management of our women’s first team with a cup
win, promotion and a cup final still to be played.
“Chris’
leadership as interim manager of the final eight games was outstanding. Whilst
we will miss him on the board and as head of the women’s team, Chris has proven
to be the natural choice for the permanent manager of our men's first team". |