Walton & Hersham end their wait as Swans name their new manager

Walton & Hersham’s hunt for a new manager is at an end as the club start their search for Enterprise National League South salvation.

The Swans, who have been without a head coach since they and Kevin James parted ways three weeks ago, have announced the arrival of Ruben Gaspar.

He is familiar with the Surrey club having previously managed Walton’s B team and had stepped up to take interim charge of the first team alongside Wayne Andrews.

He says he is up for the fight of trying to put the promoted team off the foot of the table with just one point on the board from the first eight fixtures.

“I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead this team, I am ready to face the challenge head-on,” he told the club’s website.

“We’ll build a strong culture, set high standards and create a winning mentality based on hard work, honesty and integrity. The work starts now.“

He takes charge for the first time as permanent manager for the first time on Saturday when Walton welcome Farnborough.

Gaspar has also coached at Dorking Wanderers, Queens Park Rangers, Oxford United and Aldershot Town.

Neal Ardley won’t be helping him take the team despite last week taking over as Director of Football.

“I’ve really enjoyed sitting down with the owners and hearing just how honest they’ve been about where the club is at, and the challenges that lie ahead,” he said.

“That honesty is a big part of what’s drawn me to this role. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in, working closely with the management team and the players, and doing everything I can to help us face those challenges together.”