SYDENHAMS Premier outfit Portland United have appointed ex-Weymouth boss Brendon King as their new permanent manager.

King, who oversaw Hamworthy United to fifth in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division last season, is joined by assistant manager Mark Carter.

Portland's new management duo replace the interim line-up of Gary Bailey plus coaches Stuart Heath and Chris Wilson.

In a statement, the club said the Blues' fresh appointments were a "safe pair of hands".

It read: "Portland United Football Club have appointed Brendon King as manager to replace interim manager Gary Bailey, who stepped down two weeks ago due to work commitments.

"Mark Carter has been appointed as assistant manager, the duo having taken Hamworthy United to fifth place in the Wessex Premier League last season.

"It was agreed by the PUFC management committee that the club needed to get back on track ASAP following the well-documented trials and tribulations of last season which saw the club finish in 15th place.

"In this respect, we have gone for a safe pair of hands with a management duo familiar with a very competitive Wessex Premier League.

"After strengthening the playing squad, whilst at the same time working within the financial resources of the football club, I'm confident that our loyal supporters will be pleased with our new management team as we seek to make the club a dominant force in the Wessex Premier League."