Driver settling back into hot-seat

Having previously managed the Blues between 2005 and 2006 before guiding the Suffolk club's reserves to a top six finish last term, Driver, pictured, is no stranger to fans at Victory Road. Unveiled on Friday after Wilkins stood down 48 hours earlier, he will be assisted by Tony Kinsella as head coach.

After transforming the fortunes of the reserves who finished bottom of their league the previous season, Leiston chairman Andy Crisp is backing the pair to bring more success and bring through the club's next generation of stars.

Crisp said: "I'm delighted to announce the latest appointment for Leiston Football Club. Both Glenn Driver and Tony Kinsella are well respected and have the same desire as the club which is to succeed and develop young, quality players here at Leiston FC.

"They have made massive strides over the past twelve months, attracting some quality young players to the club. Along with those already in the fold we feel as a club we have a very strong structure taking shape and that is down to the hard work being put in place behind the scenes especially by Glenn and Tony.

"Our aims remain the same, to push for a play-off place in the Ryman Premier and the new management team has the full support of the financial board to strengthen the squad as and when required."

He added: "We have tremendous support from our sponsors and supporters and along with a great squad, we look forward to starting the new season with the continued philosophy of previous seasons, to remain competitive and with a smile on everyone’s face."

Appointed in October 2014, Wilkins parted company with the club on Wednesday only a few weeks after guiding the Blues an eighth-placed finish, their highest ever final standing in the Ryman League's top flight. The former Bury boss also guided Leiston to the final of the Suffolk Senior Cup at Ipswich's Portman Road.

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