Stimson signs experienced hand

Appointed at the weekend, Handley, was brought in by Fleet manager Mark Stimson over the weekend and will be alongside him for the first time at Ship Lane when his new club host Cheshunt in Ryman North.

Having played for over 20 years in Non-League, including a short spell with Chelmsford City before a broken leg ended his playing career, Handley, pictured, arrives with a wealth of experience.

After moving into coaching at Colchester United, Handley went on to work for Arsenal's academy before moving back into men's football at his local club Aveley in December 2015.

Former Grays Athletic, Stevenage Borough, Gillingham, Barnet and Kettering Town boss Stimson has told the club's fans he's delighted to have Handley on board as his new number two.

In a club statement, Stimson said: "I am looking forward to working with Ryan, he will be a huge help as I have not had anybody in this position since Scott Barrett left in the summer."

Handley said: "It has been a bit of a whirlwind but I am absolutely delighted to have been given the opportunity to work with Mark and the team at Thurrock. Being local, I knew of Mark and what his team are building here, so when the opportunity arose to join him as assistant-manager, I didn't hesitate to accept."

He added: "I am looking forward to working closely with him and can't wait to get started against Cheshunt on Tuesday night."

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