DARREN Manning believes Craig Shipman’s experience could prove crucial as Hullbridge Sports prepare for their first season as an Isthmian North club.

Shipman has been appointed as Sports’ new first team coach having only resigned as manager of Brentwood Town earlier this month.

And Manning is pleased to welcome Shipman to the Ryan’s Heating Stadium.

“I put it out on Twitter that we were looking for a new first team coach,” said the Hullbridge boss.

“Craig messaged me and asked about the terms and conditions of the job.

“Once I had someone like Craig asking about the job, that brought a smile to my face.

“Having him on board was a no-brainer for us and he came down to the club to talk to us.

“All of us in the meeting said that he is a Hullbridge person and I can’t wait to work with him.

“His experience will be crucial for us because he knows how to do well in this league.

“I have seen a lot of the local teams in this league play in the past but perhaps not those further afield, whereas he knows how each team plays and their strengths and weaknesses.

“He has been there, done it and worn the t-shirt.

“We will be leaning on his experience and we can’t wait to get started.”

Samuel Eyley has also been drafted into Manning’s backroom staff and will work alongside Shipman as first team coach.

Eyley has gained experience with stints at Barnet, Leyton Orient and the Essex FA.

And Manning was impressed with Eyley’s interview.

“Sam blew us away in his interview,” added Manning, who led Sports to the Essex Senior League title in his first full campaign at the helm.

“He knows a few of the players already and he delivers really good quality coaching.

“His attention to detail is what caught my eye.”

Manning was forced into making adjustments to his backroom staff after Joe Gadsdon and Roy Darbo departed last week.

And Manning was disappointed to see the duo leave the club.

“It was a bit gutting that they left because they are two incredibly good coaches and good friends of mine,” admitted Manning.

“It was hard to see them go but that’s football and I will always be grateful for how instrumental they were to our success.”