Former Hartlepool United and Sunderland midfielder Tommy Miller appointed permanent Spennymoor Town manager

The 42-year-old made over 130 appearances during his first spell at Victoria Park before going on to play for the likes of Ipswich Town, Sunderland and Sheffield Wednesday.

He returned to Pools in 2014 before moving into coaching when he was appointed as assistant manager to Spennymoor boss Jason Ainsley in the summer of 2016.

Miller then took interim charge of the Moors in December following the shock departure of the Moors legend and oversaw an unbeaten three-game run that culminated in a fine performance to secure a 3-1 win at North East neighbours Gateshead.

The National League North season was brought to a premature end in February, but Miller has already turned his focus towards planning for his first season as the club’s permanent manager.

He told the club website: "I would like to thank the Chief Executive, Brad Groves, and Managing Director, Tony Wilson, for giving me the opportunity, and I am looking forward to the challenge ahead.

"Having been at the club for just under five years now, I know how professionally ran everything is and the plans in place to take Spennymoor Town forward.

“There is a lot to sort and organise in preparation for the new season, but I can’t wait to get started as it’s something I have always wanted to do since finishing my playing career.

“I’m confident that with the players I bring into the football club alongside the group we already have, we can be right up there when it matters next season.

“The philosophy is simple for me. Winning football.

"Each game is different and each one brings its own challenges, so we have to be well prepared and be willing to fight for each other in order to reach our targets in what is a very competitive division.”

Miller is expected to name his backroom staff in the near-future and will also look to tie down a number of key players as he looks to help the Moors challenge at the top end of non-league’s second tier once again.

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