Chapman's back in the driving seat

Jim Chapman is back as chairman of Redbridge after Imran Merchant stepped down from the post at the Ryman North club.

The Motormen announced at the weekend that Merchant had resigned for personal reasons. Chapman, pictured, has been club president since passing control to Merchant nearly two years ago.

In a statement on the club's official website, Chapman confirmed that joint managers Ricky Eaton and Dave Ross will remain in charge of the first-team at Oakside but will be working with a reduced budget when the new season kicks off on Saturday 9 August.

Chapman said: "Imran said he could not continue in the position for personal reasons so he’s had to step aside. Dave and Ricky remain in charge of the first team but in terms of budget that will be down on last year.

"When I first held the position it was just the first team but we now have teams from under-14s right up to under-21s, with a reserve side as well. A couple of the youngsters got a chance towards the end of the last season and though it may take a little while for some to develop, the youngsters will be given the chance."

The Motormen are away at Wingate & Finchley on Tuesday night in pre-season action. For the latest pre-season games involving Ryman League clubs check out the pre-season friendlies under the 'match info' tab.

Image courtesy of www.pitchero.com/clubs/redbridge