Aylesbury United have appointed Andy Ballard as their new first-team manager, with his first game in charge coming away to Waltham Abbey on Tuesday evening.
The appointment marks the start of a new chapter for the Ducks, who say they are looking to build a side capable of challenging for promotion and ultimately bring the club back to the town.
Ballard brings previous managerial experience with Didcot Town, where he was in charge between 2016 and 2019. During that spell, he guided the club to the Southern League play-offs and a cup final.
He has since worked as assistant manager and interim manager at Oxford City, helping the club secure promotion to the National League in 2023.
His playing career also included spells with Oxford City, Slough Town, Didcot Town and Chesham United.
In an announcement on the club's website, Aylesbury United said Ballard had impressed during the interview process, highlighting his ambition, energy and approach to the role.
The club made clear that the appointment was about more than the immediate future, with a longer-term plan to establish a competitive team capable of winning promotion.
Ballard said he had been attracted by the club's vision and ambitions, particularly the prospect of eventually returning to Aylesbury.
Speaking to the club's website, he said he wanted to see the team play fast, attacking football while also being organised and defensively strong.
He also urged supporters to give the new management time, saying they would see a change in the team's approach and expressing his hope that results would follow.
Aylesbury United also paid tribute to Danny Gray for his work during the interim period, thanking him for securing valuable points and helping the club through the managerial transition.
Ballard is expected to confirm his backroom team in due course, as he begins work on building a team capable of delivering the club's ambitions for the future.
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