Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips will take his first steps into management with South Shields FC.
The Northern Premier League promotion contenders announced the shock departure of Graham Fenton on Sunday morning, less than a day after victory over Radcliffe lifted the Mariners to within five points of the top of the table.
Phillips has previously enjoyed coaching stints with Derby County, Leicester City, and Stoke City, and publicly expressed his interest in succeeding both Jack Ross and Phil Parkinson in the hotseat at the Stadium of Light.
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The former England international will speak to the media on Thursday ahead of his first training session in charge, and admits he can not wait to get started at Mariners Park.
Phillips told the club's website: “I’m absolutely delighted to come on board having been given the opportunity to manage South Shields.
“This is my first taste of management so I’m eager to get going and I’m very, very excited.
“I’d like to thank Geoff Thompson for giving me this opportunity. I’m very grateful for it and am looking forward to working with Geoff and everyone connected with the club.
“The club is very ambitious and is an exciting place to be, which is demonstrated by the investment which has been made in the team and the facilities.
“I’m really looking forward to being part of it and hopefully helping the club move forwards.”
Club chairman Geoff Thompson added: “We are incredibly excited about the prospect of Kevin joining us and leading our first-team.
“His pedigree, background and experience in the game are substantial and I’m sure he’s going to make a massive impact on the club.
“I’m sure everyone connected to the club will join me in welcoming Kevin with open arms, and I very much look forward to working with him over the coming years.”
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