Lido appoint Evans as Manager

Welsh Premier side Afan Lido have announced Paul Evans as their new manager for the forthcoming season.

Evans, a former club captain at the Port Talbot side, takes over the reins following the departure of Paul Reid at the end of last season.

Lido have struggled in recent seasons, having only survived relegation from the top flight this term due to the financial demise of Llanelli.

The 39 year old Evans played more than 500 matches for the Seasiders and was also part of the management team behind Lido’s Welsh Cup run back in 2007.

Club General Manager, Mark Robinson, said: “Firstly, Afan Lido Football Club would like to thank Paul Reid for his hard work over the last twelve months during what was a difficult season.

“We are delighted to have Paul Evans back on board as manager, and look forward to the forthcoming campaign under his guidance.

“Paul’s heart has always been at Afan Lido, and we hope that his return will have a positive effect both on and off the field.”

Evans has started his tenure by retaining the services of Chris Hartland, Luke Borelli and Mark Crutch, all of whom have signed on for the 2013/14 season.

Afan Lido have also kept hold of Supporters’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year, former Swansea City midfielder Gareth Phillips, who will remain in his role as player/coach.

Evans commented: “We are delighted to retain the services of Gareth Phillips whose knowledge of the league and experience will be of massive benefit to the club once again.

“We have had excellent turn-outs so far in pre-season training and we hope that we can add to our squad from the many new players that have trialled so far.”

Evans will see his charges in action for the first time in a pre-season friendly at Abertillery Bluebirds on Saturday July 13.