FREDDY Ward has been appointed as the new manager of Evo-Stik Southern League South and West league side Slimbridge AFC.

Ward is formally assuming the position of first team manager until the end of the season following the departure of Leon Sterling in December.

Ward has been in caretaker charge of side for the last three games since Sterling’s departure which was by mutual consent after a poor run of results towards Christmas.

He left during the Christmas period, leaving Ward in control of the side.

Ward said: "Leon is a very hard act to follow. I wanted to carry on playing until the end of the season anyway, and I’m going to give it my all, and hopefully we can pick up a few results with a very tough run of games coming up."

Experience is crucial to Slimbridge as the look to avoid a basement battle in the league this season.

So Ward has chosen just that to help him as backroom staff.

Ward added: "Johnny Cant and Lee Smith will be backing me up behind the scenes, so it will be a good challenge for all of us, and I know we can count on a good response from the lads.’

Chairman Barry Gay said the club were thrilled that Ward has taken up the reigns of the club after acting as Sterling's assistant manager.

The Swans had several applications but decided Ward was the man to lead them.

Gay said: "I am absolutely delighted that Freddy has accepted our offer. After seeing the response from players, staff and committee, and the manner in which Freddy has gone about his duties, I had absolutely no hesitation in asking Freddy to continue in his role.

"He has the full support of everyone here at Thornhill Park, and our main aim for the rest of this season is to steady the ship and ensure we finish in a respectable position in what it is a very tough league.’

Ward made his first appearance for the Swans on August 9 2003 against Chipping Norton Town, and has gone on to make 412 first team appearances for the club.

As assistant nanager to Sterling, he has represented the club in 330 games.