MARK West has been appointed as Thame United's new player-manager, following Andy Sinnott's decision to quit as boss of the Ryman League Division 1 North club.

West, 37, a former England schoolboy internaytional, who was Sinnott's No 2 at the Windmill Stadium, was appointed after Sinnott resigned in a row over the playing budget.

The ex-Wycombe Wanderers and Slough Town striker, who joined Thame from Farnborough Town in 1999, will be assisted by coach Brett Chowns.

West, who is due to meet chairman Jim Tite tonight to discuss next season, said; "It's going to be a big challenge, but we're both looking forward to it.

"I've always wanted to be a manager. That's why I have been taking my coaching badges.

"Myself and Brett will be sitting down with the chairman to discuss what players we've got and the money we will have to work with."

Buckinghamshire-born West, started his career as an apprentice at West Ham, before he moved to Wycombe. In his ten years there he helped them to the Conference title, as well as the FA Trophy.

He later had a four-year spell at Slough Town, before he spent a year at Farnborough.

"I have had a lot of playing experience and want to use that as a manager," he added. "You learn something from every manager you work with.

"In the four years I have been here, I learned a great deal from Andy. He was a big help."

"He did a good job here and we want to continue that.

"As a player, you don't want to lose any game, and I will be the same as a manager. We've got a lot of young lads and hopefully they have learnt from last year.

"I am looking to add a few players. I have a lot of contacts in the game.