STUDLEY manager Paul Smith has hailed the addition of vastly experienced coach Martin Sockett joining his backroom staff.

The former Redditch United boss filled the void left by Graham Scott, who joined Bromsgrove Sporting as director of football, and Andy Mason.

Smith had previously worked with Sockett as his number two during his brief spell at the Valley Stadium hot-seat in the 2011-12 campaign.

Smith said: “I am delighted to have Martin on board, he’s so qualified that I can’t really call him my assistant. It’s a case of roles reversed for us because I was number two at Redditch United but we have a great relationship.”

Sockett built his reputation at Rugby Town before a brief spell at the Reds. He then was joint manager at Athertone until the end of the 2012-13 season.