Former striker Simon Austin is back at Folkestone Invicta as boss Neil Cugley moved quickly to add to his backroom staff.

The 32-year-old returns for his third spell at Cheriton Road in a newly created role as player/assistant manager, having quit as boss at Kent League Canterbury City in April.

His appointment follows the departure of player-coach Darren Smith last month.

Former Gillingham youngster Austin is still fondly remembered by Invicta supporters after his play-off goal won promotion to the Ryman Premier League three years ago said: “I spoke to Neil a week ago, and am looking forward to the new challenge.

“I had a couple of job offers to manage in the Kent League again, but I didn’t feel were right for me at the moment. I like things to be done with a certain degree of professionalism, and didn’t want to drop my standards."

“I still want to return to management as some stage and Neil knows that. I have not done this role before, and am still learning, but he is giving me the opportunity to put my views across and take some of the sessions.”

Invicta have also confirmed local family-run domestic applicance company Fullicks as new stadium sponsors renewing links with the club stretching back 25 years.

The four-figure season on-season deal will see Fullicks greatly increase their involvement with the club, having been sponsors of the player-of-the-month awards.

Boss Neil Cugley who has been involved with the negotiations said: “We have been talking about naming the stadum, and gave Paul first option. It’s not just about the money, I have known Paul Fullick for about 40 years through football, and I am delighted they have come on board."