Paine looking forward to East Preston challenge

Paine, who was appointed boss on Sunday following Paul Ettridge’s departure last week, sees huge potential in his new side.

The former Worthing under-21 boss bowed out of that role by becoming Ryman League under-21 champion of champions on Saturday.

But Paine, who has also managed Steyning Town and Storrington in his career, felt the time was right for a change and sees EP as the ideal opportunity for him.

He said: “It was tough to leave Worthing but a few things happened and I felt it was right for me to move on.

“The opportunity to take over at East Preston came up and it was one I couldn’t refuse.

“This is a good club that has had a difficult couple of seasons but I’d like to come in and stabilise the team.”

EP were Southern Combination League Premier Division champions two seasons ago but were relegated into Division 1 this season, after just three league victories.

Plans are in place for East Preston to run an under-21 side next season and Paine admitted that was a major factor in his decision to take over at the club.

He said: “It’s been a tough couple of seasons for EP but I’d like to be the man to turn it around.

“First and foremost, it’s about stabilising and consolidating, then seeing where we can go from that point.

“I had a really good meeting with the committee and wanted to take this on.

“Were hoping to have an under-21 team next season and that was a big factor.

“It’s important to have that, as you can bring players through as well as sticking first-teamers down into the under-21’s, should they be injured or not getting game time.”

Paine’s coaching team of Richard Wootton, Lee Hawkey and Jon Chalaye, from Rebels’ under-21 team, will join him at EP, while Paine is also hopeful a few of his former players may follow as well.

He said: “A few haven’t had a chance with Worthing but are ready for senior football and could come here.

“It’s still early days, though, I’d like to have a look at those players here from last season as well, if they wish to stay on, then make a decision on which would be the best next step after a few sessions in pre-season.”

East Preston chairman Terry Doyle is hopeful Paine and his coaching staff can guide the side back into the Premier Division and said: “We are delighted to welcome Bob and Jon to the club.

“They have a proven record in developing young talent and will continue our policy in that respect.

“We will also be running an under-21 team next season and, with added experience, look to build a side to bounce straight back to the Premier Division.”

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