Standen, who replaces Adam Westwood following his departure exactly a month ago, was part of the successful managerial team that helped Whitehawk achieve three promotions in four seasons from 2010 to 2013, which saw them move from Southern Combination League Division One up to the Vanarama National League South.

Most recently, he spent four months as caretaker manager alongside Tony Coade at long-time rivals Lewes last season. However, the new appointment is keen to leave those past rivalries behind.

He told https://www.horshamfc.co.uk: “For me and Dom Di Paola, it’s a relationship that has been built over the years, helping each other out and trusting each other’s judgement.

“When Wezzo decided to step down, Dom asked me whether I’d be interested, and I told him I’d think about it because there’s a big rivalry between Lewes and Horsham, and I used to play for Lewes, but I knew it was too good an opportunity to turn down.

“It’s a great club, with a great set-up, and I know quite a few of the players personally. So, it was a no-brainer and I wanted to get back into it after we resigned at Lewes”.