John Embery and Jermaine Darlington appointed joint managers at Isthmian League Faversham Town

Faversham Town have appointed joint managers.

John Embery and Jermaine Darlington will team up after Faversham ended an “extensive process” by turning to the duo.

Former Wimbledon player Darlington and Embery have worked together before as aa management duo at Sittingbourne under-21s and Herne Bay.

They come in to replace departed James Collins.

It completes a reshuffle from the top down at the club after both Collins and club chairman Paul Bennett left the club.

A club statement said: “Faversham Town is delighted to announce the appointment of new first team joint-managers John Embery and Jermaine Darlington.

“After an extensive process, following 26 applications and a number of interviews, the club is thrilled to announce the new appointment.

“John and Jermaine come to the club with extensive experience in coaching and managing following professional careers as players. They share the same vision for the club and have a proven track record of developing young talent and creating a pathway into the first team, and that is something the panel were impressed with.”

Embery, who played for Chelsea, West Ham and Charlton as a kid, went onto appear for the likes of Gravesend, Dover and Margate.

He said: “Myself and Jermaine are delighted to have been given the opportunity to work with this great club and we cant wait to meet the players and fans! We are looking forward to the season ahead playing a style of football that you will hopefully enjoy. See you soon at the Aquatherm.”

Gary Smart has taken over as chairman, having arrived last summer as main club sponsor with his company Smart Office Solution. Former director Marc Leader returns to the board as vice chairman along with Dean Kent, a local businessman.