CRAIG Adey is confident of being a success at Ardley United after agreeing to become the club’s new manager.

The 33-year-old has been appointed the north Oxfordshire side’s boss, bringing to an end a rollercoaster three weeks at the Uhlsport Hellenic League club.

Ian Feaver, who has replaced Norman Stacey as chairman, announced last week Ardley would be moving down from the Premier Division to Division 1 West for next season.

The 54-year-old promptly appointed Adey, who has left his job in charge of Oxford City Nomads, as manager.

He brings assistant Dan Leggett with him and is looking forward to the challenge.

Adey said: “We knew how good a club it is, having visited for a number of years and what a great job Norman and the committee have done.

“It was a no-brainer.

“We had a look around the facilities and what they have done is fantastic.

“We want to make our own mark on it.”

Adey added: “Once I walked into the changing room and had a look around areas I had not seen before, I was amazed how great it all was.

“It got me excited for the future, that’s for sure.”

Ardley were dealt a hammer blow earlier this month when chairman Stacey announced he would be stepping down after 35 years, before manager Paul Davis resigned, citing personal reasons.

But within the space of a fortnight, the club had found replacements for both.

Feaver, a former Ardley manager, was appointed chairman by Stacey, who is staying on as secretary.

He promptly announced the club would be applying for relegation to Division 1 West as it was unsustainable to remain in the Premier.

Adey, who had been with Nomads since 2011, said: “It’s not a situation we’re totally happy with, but neither are the club.

“Because of the circumstances it makes sense.

“It’s one where you can build properly and get back in the Premier Division as soon as possible.

“It was no way a deal breaker and we can now recharge and get back to where we should be.”

The search now begins to attract players to pre-season training and Adey is confident of doing so.

He said: “We’ve got an open door policy, everyone is welcome, that includes older, younger and local players.

“I’ve got a base of a good squad, it’s quite young, but quite talented.

“It’s good foundations, but we will need a few extra recruits.

“The Hellenic registration forms have not officially come out yet, but a lot of players have agreed to come down to pre-season.”

Adey added: “Norman is going to contact some of last year’s players and I would certainly love to see them.

“Budget constraints might have an impact, but certainly the door is wide open, especially for the long-serving players like Troy (Bryan) who have been important to Ardley.”

Feaver was delighted to appoint Adey and is optimistic of a bright future.

He said: “I have every confidence in Craig and his team to bring in a good squad of players and take us forward.”