Aberbargoed Buds have unveiled Ben Murphy as their new first-team manager.
Murphy makes a swift return to management having left his role with Abertillery Bluebirds last month. The Buds have been without a manager since September after parting ways with Sean Wharton.
John Lewis, Billy Vaughan, and Craig Evans all took interim charge, and they will shape up Murphy’s management team.
He takes up the reigns on Monday, January 1, and his first match will be against Lliswerry on Friday, January 5 at the Aberbargoed Recreational Ground. Buds at the time of writing are on 25 points and are three points off of the play-offs, and seven points off league leaders Trethomas Bluebirds.
A club statement read: “Aberbargoed Buds are delighted to announce the appointment of Ben Murphy as the new First Team Manager.
The appointment follows a series of interviews with Ben and several other candidates, who all at the Buds would like to thank for applying for the post.”
“Thank you for all the comments, positive and negative,” said Murphy in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
“Been nothing but impressed with the club over the last few weeks. It’s going to be really tough challenge in a very competitive league but ready to get going again. Short break made me realise I need football.”
Murphy led Aber Bluebirds to the South East title last year, and in the season before that, they finished second and lost to Ynyshir Albions in the Ardal Leagues play-offs. His previous clubs include Abergavenny Town and the defunct Ynysddu Welfare.
In addition to Murphy’s arrival, they have signed Ross Davies. The 27-year-old joins from league rivals Goytre and made six appearances for them this term with one assist. He made his debut in the 3-1 win over Tredegar Town on Friday (December 29).
Murphy reunites with Brandon Withers, who made the move from Aber Bluebirds to Buds on December 15. The 24-year-old made his debut in the middle of the month, however, was absent for their last game. Before his move to Aberbargoed, he played 12 times for Aber Bluebirds this season.
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