SYDENHAMS Premier outfit AFC Portchester have signalled their ambition to progress by appointing ex-Arsenal winger Graham Rix as head coach.

The 55-year-old’s arrival coincides with the departure of Glenn Bridgman, Portchester’s manager for the last four years, who last season led them to promotion from Wessex One.

Rix, capped 17 times for England, will work closely with the Wicor Rec outfit’s director of football Mick Jenkins and coach/interim manager Louis Bell.

*Full story and non-league previews in tomorrow's Echo.