FIRST-TEAM coach Kieran Hammatt will take over with immediate effect as interim first team manager of Haverhill Rovers for the remainder of the season.

After Peter Betts stood down as boss of the Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division side it was announced in November that Ali Shulver would take on the role of interim manager for the remainder of the season or until a time that a suitable full-time manager could be found.

After working alongside Hammatt for the last two months Shulver has now made a recommendation to the committee asking for them to consider giving him the job for the remainder of the season with a view to taking the role on full time next season.

A club statement said: “Ali stated that Kieran has worked very hard since coming into the club and is passionate about wanting to do well and he has got to know the players very well and has without doubt won their respect which is the most important thing.

“Ali feels that Kieran should be given the chance to take on the role for the remainder of season as he wants the job and it would be a great opportunity for him to show the club what he can do. He has managed at this level before and has a good coaching CV as well as a good level of desire and enthusiasm that should give everyone a lift at the club.

“Ali will stay involved in the dugout and will now take up the role of assistant manager to support Kieran.

“The club will review the position at the end of the season and look to make a decision on whether to offer the role to Kieran full time or re-advertise the role.

“Chairman Mike Tokely stated he would like to thank Ali for his good work over the last few months in ensuring the first team was stabilised and in helping Kieran to get to know the players and the club.

“Mike also stated that Ali would still play a key role in assisting Kieran moving forwards and would remain an important link between the dugout and the committee.”