IN the latest move in what has become a south Essex footballing merry-go-round, Aveley FC have announced the appointment of popular former player Alex Akrofi as its new first team manager.

The news came less than 24 hours after Akrofi, in his role as interim manager, had guided Brentwood Town to a comeback 3-2 FA Cup win at Parkside.

He was in that role following the midweek decision by Brett Munyard to quit Millers to take over at Brentwood after the departure of another former Aveley boss Keith Rowland.

Tack that onto the end of season departure of Danny Scopes to Billericay – not long after an ill-manner spat between the two clubs over a player registration mishap and the ever-changing face of local non-League football had a new chapter.

Akrofi's name is already on Avelely first team centenary shirt which highlights its heroes over 100 years of the Millers and he has long been designated an Aveley legend having joined the club as a player back in 2018 - making his debut in a 6-0 win over Dereham Town. He went on to make 134 appearances, scoring 72 goals and 43 assists and an Isthmian North title in addition to some notable cup runs.

Announcing Akrofi's return at the end of an emotional and traumatic week for the Millers, chairman Craig Johnson said: "I have known Alex for many years, and he returns as a fan favourite. It's no secret that I have always said that one day Alex will be our number one. The time I feel is right for Alex, having worked under Keith Rowland for the past couple of seasons to make that step up.

"I am delighted Alex has accepted the role, and I have every confidence that his work ethic, desire and application will help him become an excellent manager."

Akrofi said: "It is a massive honour to be trusted to lead the team and I'm really excited and looking forward to getting underway. I'm going to try and bring a relentless attitude to the whole group.

"Let's get this place rocking every single game, that's what I want."

Looking back on a difficult and changing week, he said: "The past is the past; we have to move on now."

Watch Alex's first full interview as Millers boss here.

Updates and confirmation on Akrofi's backroom staff will be made in the near future.