New joint manager Chris Woollcott is looking forward to the challenge as he takes charge of Canterbury.

Woollcott, who was part of Nick Gearing’s management set-up for the latter’s brief spell at Herne Bay, has been appointed alongside former Sittingbourne coach Josh Hall.

The duo take over with City in disarray after the departures of manager Clive Cook, his staff and the entire playing squad who left last week after their relationship with the board broke down.

The pair’s first task will be to sign a whole first-team squad in time for Saturday’s Southern Counties East League home match against Deal.

Woollcott, 31, said: “I’m delighted. It all happened very quickly.

“It came out of the blue with how it all developed. I had a chat with (secretary) Tony Day on Saturday and we were interviewed on Sunday.

“It is (a difficult time to be taking charge) but it’s a challenge, and that’s something both Josh and I want.

“We have good contacts in the league, particularly with younger players.

“We have not got time to train with Canterbury (ahead of Saturday’s match), so it’s just a case of getting a team because we don’t want to let Deal or the league down.”

Woollcott and Hall have previously worked together with Dover’s under-16s.

On what kind of side he expects to put out against Deal, Woollcott said: “I imagine it will be a young side although, ideally, we would like to get a couple of experienced players in, as well.

"We have a couple of people playing for us for just this one fixture. It’s almost a free hit.”

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• City respond to Cook's claims
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