Promotion-chasing Faversham have appointed their new manager.

Former Tonbridge and Ashford boss Tommy Warrilow replaces Sammy Moore at Salters Lane, with Warrilow having been out of work since he left the Isthmian South East Nuts & Bolts last April.

Warrilow has gone into business with son Josh, setting up Thank Collagen after using the Covid-19 lockdown to reflect on their own well-being, but has now returned to the game.

He replaces former Football League midfielder Moore, who was sacked by the ambitious Southern Counties East Premier Division team last Tuesday.

In a club statement on Wednesday afternoon, Faversham chairman Gary Smart said: “Tommy will bring along with him his trusted backroom staff and will take training tomorrow [Thursday] night in preparation for the Lilywhites’ game at Rusthall on Saturday, January 13.

“The board expresses gratitude to all the applicants who applied for the vacant position, whether by direct application or invitation. Both the board and I are confident that we have the right experienced manager in place to propel the club forward.

“With years of top-level managerial experience, Tommy is a valuable addition and we consider ourselves fortunate to have him on board at this stage of the season.

“Tommy has eagerly awaited a return to football since departing Ashford at the end of last season, where he left an indelible mark with his successful tenure. His noteworthy track record with clubs like Ashford, Tonbridge Angels and Cray Wanderers further emphasises his capability.

“We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Matt Newman and (director of football development) Phil Miles, who provided valuable assistance with the management duties during the interim period while a suitable candidate was being chosen.

“The club is committed to supporting Tommy in the pursuit of promotion this season and in the seasons to come. We invite you to join us in extending best wishes to Tommy and his backroom team for the remainder of the season as we strive for promotion.

“Let’s rally behind the new management team and the players in Saturday's game against Rusthall!

“Welcome, Tommy Warrilow, to the Lillywhites.”

It would appear 59-year-old Warrilow has beaten stiff competition for the role. Speaking yesterday, Smart revealed more than 40 people had applied.

He told KentOnline: “I think we had over 40 applicants. It’s very humbling.

“When I first went in, in May 2022, I think the advert went out (for a new manager) and we had a handful of decent candidates. The club were in a different position then.

“Obviously, people have seen the progression of the club from a pitch and ground point of view - and with the players we have bought in.

“I would say definitely 10 applicants made the shortlist very quickly.”

Warrilow, also formerly of Cray Wanderers and Thamesmead Town, reached two play-off finals in four years at Ashford before suffering heartache against Herne Bay and Horsham.

Faversham went into this term with lofty ambitions. But they were kicked out of the FA Vase last September after playing ineligible Sheppey loanee Jefferson Aibangbee and sit second, a point behind leaders Glebe, while Corinthian and Deal have league fixtures in hand on those above them.

Experienced defender Matt Newman - who works with Smart in his day job - had taken temporary charge of the Lilywhites for their 2-2 home draw against Tunbridge Wells last weekend.

Striker Stefan Payne, the division’s top scorer, gave them an early advantage but only captain Connor Essam’s late leveller earned them a point after the visitors struck twice in the second half.

Faversham visit Rusthall this Saturday and also have an away Challenge Cup Quarter-Final at promotion rivals Corinthian on Tuesday.