New Matlock Town boss Dave Hoole ready for the challenges ahead

Hoole was confirmed as the Gladiators new manager after a successful spell as interim boss with Shaun Harrad named as player/assistant manager.

“I’m really, really pleased with the decision, I’m looking forward to the new season already,” he said.

“It’s going to be a challenge, but anyone who has seen us play will know that our style of football should attract quality players.

“We’ll all have to work really hard, but we’ve got plenty of contacts in this league and the one above as well as in the Football League.”

Positive results while he was in temporary charge look to have swung the decision in his favour.

“The way the boys have turned things around in those last few games to move up the league in the way we did and what we’ve all managed to achieve in that short space of time certainly didn’t do us any harm,” Hoole continued.

“The way we play won’t change, It’s my own personal ethos, we’re playing the game the way I think it should be played and we’ll get the lads in we want accordingly. In our training sessions we’ll develop this and educate them into moving the ball that bit more quickly.”

Hoole was also delighted to have Harrad alongside him.

“I’m over the moon for Shaun. I’ve not had the chance to see him play but his career record speaks for itself. He’s been a superb number two and having him with me has paid dividends with his concise attention to detail. He sees a lot of things I don’t and we bounce off each other really well. We’ve had some great moments together already and I’m sure that will continue.”

Hoole also had praise for predecessors Glenn Kirkwood and Craig Hopkins, who he replaced after they left the club by mutual consent.

“I owe Glenn and Craig a big thank you for they were the ones that brought me to the club in the first place,” he said.

“They also put my name forward as caretaker when they left so I can’t thank them enough and I wish them all the very best in their future in football.”

Matlock Chairman Tom Wright added: “We’re delighted that Dave and Shaun have accepted our offer to manage the team.

“Recent performances and results have been outstanding and I know that the supporters have liked what they’ve seen.

“I’d like to say thank you to everyone who applied and wish them all the best for the future. I’m sure everyone at the club and our fans will give Dave and Shaun their full support.”