JAMIE Vermiglio says becoming manager of Chorley - a club he has served as player and coach for over a decade - was "a proud moment".

The 36-year-old has taken the reins at Victory Park following last week's shock departure of Matt Jansen, making the step up from his role as assistant manager.

And after near misses in the National League North play-offs in Chorley's attempts at promotion in the last two seasons, Vermiglio has made winning the league his goal for his first season in charge.

“I’m absolutely delighted and it’s a very proud moment for me,” said the former midfielder, who moved into a coaching role with the club after injury forced him to retire from playing in 2014.

“After talking to Matt and him wishing me all the best I couldn’t wait to get going.

"Over the three years we’ve continued our development in the National League North and improved every season. We worked well together but Janny felt he needed to move on and I wish him all the best for the future and we’ll definitely stay in touch."

And Vermiglio, who has made coach Jonathan Smith his assistant manager, revealed he had got Jansen's blessing to fill the void.

“The way it’s come about wasn’t ideal but it’s an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. Janny appreciates that," he said.

"This is an amazing club, built on tradition and the board of directors know what they’re getting with me.

"Goals for the season are very simple. At the start of the new 2018/19 campaign our mindset is to win the league and to perform to the best of our ability.

"There’s no point in playing football if you don’t want to win. We’ll win and lose gracefully.

"I’m focused, driven and will do everything to make sure we get the best possible chance for promotion."

Vermiglio first joined the club in 2003, leaving for Scarborough in 2006, and later returning in 2009/10.

He was appointed appointed to former boss Garry Flitcroft's coaching staff after hanging up his boots and spent the last three years as Jansen's number two.

Chorley chairman Ken Wright said: “Jamie was a popular player and I’m sure he’ll be just the same as manager. He’s young, experienced and his knowledge of non-league football is second to none.

“Since joining as assistant manager he has proved he wants to work with young players, make them better and help develop for the future. His vision in football and the way he is thinking about Chorley Football Club is what we want.

“He wants to structure a team and has proved already his capabilities, with the research he completes before every single match. That’s been huge to our success on the pitch over recent seasons.

"He’s an open guy who wants to work together with good staff at Victory Park, in an environment which is conducive to building something strong.”