Trophy-laden coach named as Howard's successor

Corinthian Casuals have named James Bracken as the successor to Matt Howard at King George's Field.

Sutton United's successful reserve and youth team coach was unveiled on Bank Holiday Monday following their former manager's switch to Ryman South rivals Carshalton Athletic over the weekend.

Bracken's managerial track record includes steering the Conference South club's reserves to three consecutive Suburban League Premier title wins including this season when his side remained unbeaten for the whole campaign.

Bracken, pictured, is the older brother of Corinthians keeper Danny Bracken and has been at Gander Green Lane for eight years. After picking up no less than seven trophies this season, he will continue working with United's youth team while taking up a top job in the Ryman League.

Bracken said: "I'm delighted to be taking charge at Corinthian-Casuals, a club with unrivaled history. This has come after eight years of success at Sutton United and I would like to thank them for their support.

"I look forward to taking this special club forward both on and off the pitch in what I hope will be an exciting new chapter in the club's history."

In a statement released by the club announcing the appointment, Corinthian-Casuals spokesman Stuart Tree said: "We're all really excited to have James on board. His track record is immense and he's incredibly passionate about what he does.

"His work ethic, determination and dedication will surely prove to be a huge asset for Casuals and we're already looking forward to next season."

Tree also thanked Howard and Garrard for guiding the Surrey club to a respectable mid-table finish in their first full season at the helm.

He added: "James steps into the role after the departure of Matt Howard and Assistant Luke Garrard to Carshalton Athletic. We'd like to thank both Matt and Luke for everything they achieved at Casuals and wish them all the best for the future."

The Robins are expected to formally unveil Howard as their new manager and successor to Rob Scantelbury on Tuesday. Howard succeeded Kim Harris at Corinthians in February 2014.

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