By Alex Hoad

New Faversham boss Ray Turner says he is thrilled to have been handed the role and is looking forward to the challenge of keeping Town’s progress going.

Turner, pictured, has been chosen by the board to replace Justin Luchford, who had led the Lilywhites from the foot of the Safety Net Kent League to the top half of the Ryman League Division 1 South in just three seasons.

He said: "I am obviously delighted to have been appointed. I have spent 20 years playing and coaching in Faversham and to be appointed manager of the first team is a great thrill for me.

"It is different from anything I have done before. You’re in the firing line and you’re there to be shot at, but that is the challenge of the job."

With just three games remaining, Town still have an outside chance of a play-off place, sitting five points outside fifth-place with an inferior goal difference.

Turner said: "We have a big challenge against Met Police on Saturday who I think are the most complete team in the league. We will see what we can get out of the game.

"Hopefully then the supporters will come out for the last home game of the season against Sittingbourne on Monday and show their appreciation for what the players have done."

Ashley Brown faces a fitness test ahead of the trip to Met Police but Tom Hickman – who suffered a shoulder injury while mountain biking – and Matt Bourne will not play again this season.