Blythe quit Frampton United last month after leading the Gloucestershire County League outfit to second and gaining silverware by defeating Stonehouse Town in the Stroud Charity Cup.

Blythe replaces Joey Tustain, who has stepped down due to increasing commitments off the pitch but is expected to sign playing forms with the Nailsworth outfit.

Scrivens was delighted to bring Blythe, a former Brimscombe & Thrupp and Shortwood midfielder to the club. He told the club`s website: "I’m really pleased Mat has agreed to come to Shortwood and be part of our team.

“This is a really exciting time for the club after the difficulties of last season. We have restructured the club from top to bottom and we hope to give next season a real good go."

Scrivens paid tribute to part Tustain played in a difficult season for the Nailsworth club, who will take their place in a 14-team Hellenic League Division One West next season, which is set to be increased to 16.

Scrivens added: “Joey has been first class and I can’t thank him enough. He’s agreed to remain as a player and will help out when he can".