Morten takes charge at Rustington

Morten, 30, who has played at the club for 15 years, expressed his interest in the role and was offered the job after Rick Jarvis, who had initially accepted the role, made a dramatic u-turn to quit last week.

It is the midfielder’s first managerial role and he is relishing taking up the reins at the County League Division 2 club which is very close to his heart – despite admitting he has a few nerves.

A clearly keen Morten said: “I know the place inside out and I have been here through the good and bad times, so I thought, why not give it a go.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of people and if they are good to their word, which hopefully they will be as they are mostly good friends of mine, we’ll have quite a good side and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Morten will be signing on this year, although does not intend to play due to hamstring injuries, which have been causing him problems. He will be assisted by Craig Cox and Darryl Lineham, while Clare Davey will be the club’s physio.

Morten added: “I think we have a good chance to do something special this year and I am really looking forward to it. Training starts on June 28 (7pm at Jubilee Avenue) and players new and old are all welcome.”

Rustington chairman Frank Sumner said: “Ryan has been with the club for many years, even though he’s still only young.

“He has been associated with Rustington and knows the ins and outs of the club and quite a few players, more importantly he wanted a crack at the job and anyone with that enthusiasm deserves a go at it.

“We want to finish as high as we possibly can this year and maybe get to a cup final – with the position we are in we could have a good season and still get relegated on the basis of ground gradings – we are just hoping, if it happens, it is not for footballing reasons.”