Matty Crabb has been in caretaker charge for just one game - a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Storrington on Tuesday.

On Thursday night the committee met to review all candidates, and were unanimous that one name really stood out as having the enthusiasm, knowledge, football experience and relationship with Eastbourne United – and that was Matt Crabb, who has accepted the offer to convert from caretaker to manager with immediate effect.

Thirty-seven-year-old Crabb started his very impressive playing career at United, as did his brothers Sam and Nathan, and Matt made over 500 appearances.

He was brought back to the club by Hopkinson in May 2019.