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Ashford United boss sacked through text

Ashford United have sacked manager Gary Alexander – by text message! The surprise decision came after an impressive 4-1 win over Herne Bay just hours earlier.

Alexander announced the decision himself on Twitter late on Saturday night.

United made an official statement on Sunday morning: “Ashford United manager Gary Alexander has been relieved of his duties with immediate effect, the club can confirm.

“Assistant Manager John Mackie and physio Huseyin Torgut will also leave their positions with immediate effect.”

http://www.twitter.com/_TimMiller/status/1066604752778248192

United moved quickly to replace Alexander with their former player and ex-Tonbridge Angels boss Tommy Warrilow.

Warrilow spent seven seasons in charge of the Angels and gained promotion with the team in 2011 to the Conference South, before resigning in April 2014 following their relegation back to the Ryman Premier League.

After a short stint at Cray Wanderers in January 2015, he was appointed manager of Thamesmead Town in 2016 and remained there until the club’s insolvency last month.

Warrilow spoke of his appointment on the club’s website: “The chance to manage Ashford was too good to turn down. The club is well respected within non-league circles and I truly believe that some exciting times are ahead with the project the club has in place to build on and off the field.

“I look forward to building on the position we are in currently and hope to challenge for promotion at the end of the season.”

Ashford United chairman Derek Pestridge was also happy with the decision.

He said: “Tommy is a popular figure, dating back to the Ashford Town days. His name has come up in the past and the demise of Thamesmead Town has allowed us to move quickly to secure his services.

“Tommy has vast experience, a large network of contacts, and, more importantly, is a very respected figure in Kent football circles.”