Pic: Ian Scammell
FORMER Premier League ace Jimmy Bullard has left Leatherhead after guiding the club to Ryman Premier safety.
The Tanners shocked Non-League back in September when they announced the ex-Fulham, Wigan and Hull midfielder turned celebrity had been given the manager's job following Mike Sandmann's departure.
The 38-year-old retired in 2012 and has since made a name for himself on TV, featuring on Soccer AM as well as I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here.
He took his first steps into management with Leatherhead and managed to lead the club away from relegation trouble, eventually finishing 13th in the Ryman Premier.
Bullard, who started his football career in Non-League with Corinthian, Dartford and Gravesend & Northfleet, is now moving on, however, and the Surrey outfit thanked him for his efforts over the past eight months.
A club statement read: “Jimmy Bullard has decided to pursue a full-time role in football away from Fetcham Grove.
“Leatherhead Football Club would like to thank Jimmy for all he has done, enjoying a great final run in which saw Tanners survive relegation and finish 13th in the table.
“We wish Jimmy every success in his football management career and thank him for the great times seen at the Grove in 2016-17.”
Bullard has been replaced by former Dover, AFC Wimbledon and Leyton Orient midfielder Sammy Moore, who will serve as player-manager.
Chairman Richard Brady said: “It is with pleasure that the club are able to announce the capture of such an experienced League player to its ranks.
“We were keen to create continuity after the previous successful regime and Sammy is committed to the club with ambition to move us forward as a club. He is very keen to learn his trade and has already began the important role of recruitment.
“I personally look forward to working with Sammy and know that with all our support he will be welcomed in to create the best environment possible encouraging success within our means.”
