WALTHAM Abbey have appointed Paul Wickenden as the club's new manager following the departure of Glen Alzapiedi this week.

Wickenden was a coach with the Abbotts but will now take the reins, and is expected to bring in his father, Ray, as a coach.

A club statement read: “We are pleased to announce that current first team coach, Paul Wickenden, has this evening accepted the vacant first team manager's position and will be assisted by Lee Johnson.

“Paul joined the club in season 2009/10 bringing with him extensive management/coaching experience. He was Academy and Reserve Team Manager at Harlow Town (2002-2007) and Youth Manager at Ware (2007-2008).

“We would like to thank all those who have expressed an interest in the position.”