PAUL Grainger is the new assistant manager to Steve Buckle at Ridgeons League Division One side Ipswich Wanderers, following the departure of Gary Thompson to Hadleigh United last week.

PAUL Grainger is the new assistant manager to Steve Buckle at Ridgeons League Division One side Ipswich Wanderers, following the departure of Gary Thompson to Hadleigh United last week.

Grainger, who has 26 years of football management experience under his belt, was keen to get back in to football quickly, after leaving his post at a Wivenhoe Town side who appointed a new management last week.

He said: “I'm absolutely delighted to be coming home to Ipswich Wanderers, where I have so many good friends.”

The 44-year-old, who has also had management jobs at Long Melford and Brantham amongst other clubs, said: “I'm really looking forward to working with Bucks (Steve Buckle) and the team and hopefully playing my part in taking this great club back up where it belongs.”

Manager Steve Buckle is also looking forward to the new partnership. He said: “I welcome him (Grainger) to the club, and am pleased to have him on board.”

The new pairing will work together for their first game on Tuesday night, when the Humber Doucy Lane-based side host Stowmarket Town.