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Jimmy Ball led AFC Totton to a 1-0 win over Torquay when the sides last met on 20 December [Shutterstock]
Torquay United have appointed AFC Totton boss Jimmy Ball as their new manager.
Ball, who is the son of the late England Wold Cup winner Alan, has had coaching roles at Forest Green Rovers, Stevenage, Portsmouth and Stoke City.
He became AFC Totton boss in March 2022 and led them to promotion to National League South last season and the first round of the FA Cup this season.
He replaces Paul Wotton, who was sacked earlier this month after a run of five winless games saw the Gulls drop from the top of National League South.
England's most experienced manager Neil Warnock, who works as an advisor to the Torquay board, had been in interim charge since Wotton's sacking.
"This is a football club with a big history, a big heart and a proud legacy, and one that means so much to its area and its supporters," Ball told the club website.
"To be given the opportunity to become manager of Torquay United is a fantastic moment in my career and a real honour.
"I know this squad, I respect this squad, and I've done battle with them, so I know the talent that is already in the building.
"I believe we have a real chance this season and now the work starts straight away."
- 'I had the heart pumping' - Warnock returns to management at 77
- Warnock in interim charge as Torquay sack Wotton
Ball takes over a side fifth in the sixth tier, 10 points off leaders Dorking Wanderers and two behind second-placed Hornchurch.
His first game in charge will be the trip to Dagenham and Redbridge - who have just announced former England striker Andy Carroll as their new manager - on Saturday.
"We were hugely encouraged by the volume and quality of candidates who wanted to become Torquay United manager, but Jimmy stood out," co-chairman Mark Bowes-Cavanagh added.
"He interviewed exceptionally well and gave us real confidence in his vision, his leadership and his values.
"He showed a really intelligent understanding of how to build relationships with players, improve individuals and create the right culture around the group.
"Just as importantly, he understands the balance between ambition on the pitch and the need to operate within a sustainable structure off it.
"We believe Jimmy is a very strong fit for this football club and we are delighted to welcome him to Torquay United."
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