Worthing have named Chris Agutter as their new head coach as they look to bounce back from play-off heartbreak.

The former Albion academy coach was most recently in charge at Hastings United in the Isthmian League premier division.

He will be assisted by Aarran Racine and Dean Hammond.

Agutter's final game in charge at Hastings was at the Amex after leading them to the final of the Sussex Transport Senior Cup.

He also guided them into the play-off race and was disappointed they ultimately did not claim a place in the promotion knockout.

Racine, assisted by Hammond and Darren Budd, took over in charge when Adam Hinshelwood left for York City.

Like Hinshelwood, Agutter will also head the Worthing academy.

Rebels have gone for continuity in terms of playing style and Agutter will maintain the possession-based approach established by Hinshelwood and maintained by Racine.

His managerial experience includes a stint as assistant caretaker boss at Stevenage.

Announcing the appointment, Worthing chairman Barry Hunter said: “We received interest from a number of impressive candidates and ultimately the board were unanimous in Chris’ appointment.

“We’re delighted he’ll be joining us and are confident he’ll continue to push the club forward”.

“The decision was made easier having set out a clear list of specific and unconditional criteria as part of a thorough, objective, process”.

Worthing finished a best-ever third in the Vanarama National League south this season before losing the play-off final in an extra-time thriller versus Braintree.

Their growing fanbase will be keen to know what the future holds for star players such as Ollie Pearce, Danny Cashman and Joe Felix.