Oxford City's new boss Andy Lyne has appointed former City midfielder Paul Spittle as first-team coach at Court Place Farm.

But while Spittle, 40, comes in, midfielder Justin Lee has been released, after Lyne told him he would not be part of his plans for next season's assault on the Spartan Midlands League Division 1 title.

Lee was in his third spell at Court Place Farm, having moved back in 2004 after an ill-fated spell at Banbury United.

Spittle started his career as a YTS trainee at Oxford United where he later signed as a professional, before moving to Crewe.

That was followed by spells at Worcester, Bromsgrove and Gloucester. He also played for Abingdon Town, Thame United and Brackley.

He played at Wembley in the FA Vase Final for City against Arlesey Town in 1995.

Spittle also played at Burnham, when Lyne was boss, and Chesham, before joining Ardley, where he later became player-manager.

In his six years at Ardley, four of which were as a player, he won promotion to the Hellenic League Premier Division.

However, he was sacked in December 2004 after a poor string of results.

He finished his playing career last season, guiding Wantage Town Res to the Hellenic League Division 1 title.

Lyne said: "I have worked with 'Spits' on several occasions and have always been impressed with his drive, enthusiasm, knowledge and appreciation of the game.

"He is particularly good with young players, of which we have many at City, so he was an ideal candidate.

Another ex-City player, John Horsley, has been appointed chief scout. Based in Newport Pagnell, Horsley a tough-tackling midfielder, played at City between 1974-76 when Maurice Kyle was boss.

He has an extensive knowledge of the South Midlands League, having played and managed Wolverton Town, Newport Pagnell Town, Buckingham Athletic and Milton Keynes.

"This is probably one of my most crucial appointments, as John has a terrific knowledge of the players and clubs that we are likely to meet next season," said Lyne.

Horsley will be supported by the experienced John Adaway.

Lyne has yet to appoint an assistant manager soon.