McCann makes touchline milestone

The long-serving manager, pictured, reached the landmark on Saturday when it took a late Merstham winner in Surrey to beat his side 1-0 in the Ryman's top flight.

The 43-year-old former keeper turned out for Slough Town, Aylesbury United, Dulwich Hamlet, Walton & Hersham, Enfield and Fulham before joining the Greens in March 1997 and making 196 appearances. After injury ended his career in 2003, he took the helm in February 2005 when club was still playing at Claremont Road and hopes to be at the helm next season when they move into their new home at Silver Jubilee Park.

Since his appointment, McCann has overseen 461 Ryman League matches, plus two in the play-offs and one in the Isthmian Charity Shield as well as 136 cup ties - 41 in the FA Cup, 31 in the London Senior Cup, 26 in the Middlesex Senior, 20 in the Isthmian League Cup and 18 in the FA Trophy.

And it seems he has only got better and better with last season easily his best as boss after the Greens finished second in the Ryman League's Premier Division, their highest position since 1974. Despite losing to Margate in the Ryman Premier's play-off final, McCann also masterminded a cup double after his side lifted both the Robert Dyas League Cup and London Senior Cup.

McCann, who saw his side beat a QPR XI 4-3 in a testimonial to celebrate his ten years in charge this summer, said: “I have really enjoyed my time. It is a club I have great fondness for and feel proud and honoured to have been part of it for almost 20 years now.

“Yes, there have been a few struggles, especially losing our home in 2008, but there have been many, many highs with two FA Cup runs to the first round and three final victories in the London Senior Cup and one in the League Cup.

“Last season was very special and, looking forward, hopefully we will be in a new home at the start of next season.”

* Hendon midfielder Mahrez Bettache remains upbeat despite breaking his ankle at Merstham at the weekend. On Sunday the Greens' only ever-present this season – his first with the club after joining from Corinthian–Casuals – Tweeted: “Gutted with the news of a broken ankle. No time to feel sorry for myself, will be back stronger and fitter as ever!”

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