FORMER AFC Bournemouth star Matty Holmes has this morning been confirmed as the new manager of Wimborne Town.

The 46-year-old Cherries Academy coach succeeds Simon Browne, who was sacked last week after six months in the Cuthbury post, writes Andy Mitchell.

Paula Henley, chairperson of the Southern One South & West club, said: “I am delighted that Matty has decided to join us.

"He was a terrific player and has since become an excellent coach with a strong reputation for developing players.

“He has so much playing and coaching knowledge and experience. I’m really looking forward to working with him.”

Holmes established himself as a Dean Court favourite by making 114 Football League appearances in four years before moving on to West Ham where he played in the top flight.

Stints with Blackburn and Charlton followed before injury forced him out of the professional game.

Former Dorchester manager Phil Simkin and ex-AFC Totton and Bashley boss Steve Riley were among those touted for the Cuthbury job, although both links are understood to have been wide of the mark.

Henley said: “We had quite a lot of enquiries from managers with varied levels of experience.

“There have been some people who have held senior posts in non-League, as well as others who are keen and energetic but lack experience.”

Browne was surprisingly sacked last week despite presiding over Magpies’ strong finish to the campaign.

Henley cited a “negative” attitude towards the club’s proposed playing budget for next season – claims that Browne vehemently refuted.

Browne hit back and questioned whether director Paul Miller was “pulling the strings” at Cuthbury, which was denied by Miller and Henley.