IT marked one of the most extraordinary days in the history of Billericay Town, as they signed former England international Paul Konchesky while parting company with long-serving manager Craig Edwards.

Owner Glenn Tamplin has taken temporary charge of the team.

Konchesky, 35, was unveiled to his new team-mates and supporters at the club’s New Lodge ground last night, after a week of speculation linking him to the club – a story the Echo broke on Tuesday.

But the signing of the former West Ham United and Liverpool defender was just the tip of the iceberg, with Edwards, who has been manager since 2010, confirming he was resigning along with his management team, with immediate effect.

Tamplin will be in the dug-out for tomorrow’s Ryman Premier League match with Harlow Town, while Konchesky admits he is looking forward to making his debut on the artificial pitch after being lured by the club’s ‘phenomenal ambition’.

“It is the owner’s (Tamplin) ambition that has brought me here,” he said. “I was coming to the end of my contract at Gillingham.

“I was thinking about retiring so my agent spoke to the owner here about his ambition and plans.

“I knew who Billericay were of course but I didn’t know much about the owner.

“I looked into things and I sat down with him and his ambition is phenomenal.

“His enthusiasm to take this team forward was clear and it was something I was interested in.

“The move has happened very quickly. I have retired from professional football as of yesterday and after I spoke to the owner it was a no brainer for me.

“It is clear to me that this is a man who won’t give in and this is a challenge for us all.

“As far as Harlow are concerned, I know they play on the artificial pitch and it will be different and a big test.

“But it is a challenge I am willing to give everything for.

“Tomorrow will be a big day and let’s hope I can help get the points.”

Konchesky added he would not be bringing an ego into the Billericay dressing room - with his impressive CV boasting Europa League and FA Cup runners-up medals while playing more than 600 games in professional football.

And he is looking to help a squad that is gaining in experience and quality all the time.

“I know what to expect,” he said. “I don’t have an ego and know I will not be playing at Premier League grounds. I have played football around this way before and I know what it is like here.

“I have a wealth of experience, I am a leader and you may not think I am a shouter, but I can be if I need to be.

“I have played 650 games as a professional and I can give a lot and will always be happy to pass on any tips or pointers, if people want them, of course.”