Coasters Name New Boss As Phillips Makes Return

The former Sunderland striker - who left Hartlepool United in the summer - is joined by his assistant Wess Brown at the Coasters who parted ways with Chris Beech last month.

Phillips joins with the club in the bottom four of the Vanarama National League after a 5-2 win over Aldershot Town last weekend - their first win in four.

Chairman David Haythornthwaite says Phillips - who also had a successful spell at South Shields - stood out from the other applicants.

Speaking to the club he said: "Firstly, I would like to thank Nathan Delfouneso and Chris Neal for stepping in and taking charge for the last five games, during which time they have not only steadied the ship but put a smile back on people’s faces.

"The search for the new manager has taken maybe a bit longer than people expected but this is reflective of the interest we had received in the position. Kevin was presented to us at an early stage and was invited with several others to Mill Farm for a lengthy interview and after that, was the clear favourite.

"However, it was important that we spoke to all concerned to make sure we had the very best candidate for the job. Once this was decided, late Friday afternoon, the weekend was spent finalising the contracts for both Kevin and his assistant, Wess and I am delighted everything is now concluded and Kevin and Wess are in the building.

"I am sure, like me, our fans will be excited with this appointment and that they will get behind Kevin and team from the very start which begins this Saturday with our exciting FA Cup tie against Rochdale."