Former Linfield defender Chris Casement is preparing for the next chapter in his career after becoming manager of Stowmarket Town FC.
The 35-year-old will combine playing with his new role as boss of the Isthmian League North Division outfit.
Casement joined Stowmarket in 2020 after leaving Linfield, while he previously had spells with clubs including Portadown, Dundee, Ipswich Town and Wycombe Wanderers.
Read more: Linfield boss David Healy condemns ugly scenes as club issues statement
It is an exciting new challenge for the defender and he can't wait to get started.
Casement told Stowmarket's website: “First of all I’m delighted and excited to be the new manager of Stowmarket Town FC.
"It’s something I’ve been working towards for a while now, with my playing years catching up on me. I’d like to thank Kev and the rest of the board for showing great faith in me as a young manager to take the club forward.
"I’m looking forward to working with a great group of players to see what can be achieved."
Stowmarket added: "Stowmarket Town Football Club is thrilled to introduce Chris Casement as the club’s new manager/player, with a vast array of experience and achievements garnered from his 18 years in football, both as a professional footballer and coach, Chris is set to bring a new level of success to the club.
"With over 450 senior games under his belt, Chris has a proven track record of success on the pitch. He played a key role in leading Wycombe Wanderers to promotion to EFL League 1 in the 08/09 season and won six League titles with Linfield FC in Northern Ireland.
"Additionally, he was a member of the Ipswich Town FC team that lifted the FA Youth Cup in 2005. He also boasts international experience, having represented Northern Ireland at the U17, U19, U21, and senior level.
"As a coach, Chris has eight years of experience in Northern Ireland and England, working with age groups from U8s to U18s. He has also worked as Head Recruitment Officer for Suffolk, Norfolk & Cambridgeshire and as a Youth Coach at Ipswich Town FC.
"Chris passion for the game, combined with his extensive experience, has already made him a pivotal part of Stowmarket Town’s success in recent seasons as a player."
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