Clarke became Salisbury City's skipper in 2008

Skipper Darrell Clarke is Salisbury City's new player-manager, the Southern League club has confirmed.

The 32-year-old replaces Tommy Widdrington who joined Southend United last month.

The former Mansfield and Hartlepool midfielder moved to the Ray Mac in summer 2007.

He told BBC Wiltshire. "I've worked with some of the best coaches. I'm confident in my own ability and the hard work starts now."

The club received more than 30 applications for the job, including CVs from ex-internationals and a former Championship boss.

Mikey Harris, who was Widdrington's assistant, will stay on as Clarke's number two.

Clarke said: "Its nice that we've actually earned the position. They could have made this decision two or three weeks ago.

"I feel better for knowing that I've got the job on merit and I've seen some bigger names."

Salisbury suffered a two-division demotion in June, falling from the Blue Square Premier to the Southern Premier, but will remain as a full-time club.

"It's the way forward to stay full-time," said Clarke. "I'm going to be working with a lot of young pro's who have been at league clubs.

"Its a great opportunity for myself and Mikey."

Chairman William Harrison-Allan: "They've shown exceptional maturity in the way they've dealt with things. They've not let the off-field events spoil what was going on.

"They've managed to sign some really good players.

"The other chap who didn't get the job is extremely well qualified.

"It's a gamble. How many player-managers are successful?"

Clarke has wasted no time in stamping his mark on the team by completing five new signings.

He has brought in former Southampton striker Kayne McLaggon and ex-Crystal Palace forward Matt Wright.

Former Ipswich goalkeeper Tommy Smith has also joined, while defender Perry Ryan and utility player Ellis Martin have arrived on loan from Portsmouth.

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