South Manchester’s first pre-season training began on Sunday at their state of the art South Centre in Gatley.

The session was led by ex-pro and new first-team coach Paul Kirkham who follows in the footsteps of some greats such as David Tussie, Wally Roberts and Andy Cohen. Kirkham will be assisted by Club Captain Michael Stratton and Player Liaison Officer/Social Secretary Toby Levy.

There will be a new management structure in place at the club this season, with Kirkham, Stratton and Levy reporting to Director of Football Neil Collins who in turn reports into Club Chairman Jonny Davis in a new set-up described as ‘exciting’ by former Club Secretary Les Ormrod.

Collins is particularly excited at the prospect of working with Kirkham. "Kirky is a great appointment, I'm particularly excited," he said. "Paul brings with him a wealth of experience from his playing days at the likes of Huddersfield Town and Hyde United and in management at non-league such as Abbey Hey and Woodley Sports.

"The lads love Kirky, he’s tough but fair and there’s excitement at the prospect of working with him."

It’s an exciting time for the club’s second team too. They have appointed Marc Magid as Senior Second Team Club Manager and Jake Ailion as Assistant.

South’s season kicks off in a fortnight with their first pre-season friendly against East Manchester and further friendlies to come before they take part in the El Al Trophy with other Jewish teams from around the world which should stand both teams in good stead ahead of gruelling seasons in the Manchester Accountants League and MJSL.