Baker and Rea are United for a new era at Lyons Farm

Baker joins the club having quit as co-manager of Storrington, while Rea had been assistant manager at local rivals Lancing a couple of seasons ago.

The pair are aiming to establish a real local aspect back into the club and said that the committee’s four-year plan was too impressive to say no to.

Baker had made the step up from managing Storrington’s reserves last summer and, alongside joint boss Nigel Dyer, guided the Swans to a ninth-placed finish in Division 2 last season.

He said: “I sat down with the committee and listened to their plan for the next three or four years, and it was too good to turn down. I used to play for them, so they’re an old club, my local club as I am living in Worthing at the moment and I know Gary (Downie, chairman) personally.

“The committee have good plans over the next few years and now want to stabilise.”

It will be Baker’s first crack at Division 1 and he admitted: “I will very much be thrown into the lion’s den, but it’s a club I have an affinity with. If we can have a good solid finish this year, it’ll be good for the club.”

The pair are looking to bring a real local crop of players to the club, with just three or four of last year’s team staying on.

Rea was initially going to be involved in a director of football type role, but, after meeting, the pair decided to tackle the managerial role together.

Rea said: “James is still learning, so with my experience and his youthful approach, hopefully, we can do a job.

“He is one of the best young managers out there. Everyone I have spoken to says he is meticulous and, fingers crossed, we can bounce off each other.

“It’ll be a tough year, without a shadow of a doubt, but we are working hard and talking to players hoping to develop the club side as well.”

For more reaction and the thoughts of both the United and Storrington chairmen, pick up you copy of the Worthing Herald out now.