Matt Burton has been unveiled as the new manager of soaring UniBond League club Market Drayton Town.

Burton has quit as boss of West Midlands League premier division leaders Ellesmere Rangers to take over at the third highest graded club in Shropshire football.

He becomes Drayton’s third manager of the season, taking over from Lee Roberts, who had a short-lived reign at Greenfields after himself replacing Simon Line following his departure to Hednesford.

Drayton officials remain in negotiations with former Shrewsbury and Telford striker Andy Cooke, who was born and lives in Drayton, about taking an advisory role in the new-look managerial team and – potentially – becoming available as a player.

“Matt has been under consideration since we have been looking for a manager and we are delighted to have him on board,” said Drayton chairman Alex Mutch.

“He’s a good man and his record at Ellesmere speaks for itself.”

Burton stressed it had been a tough decision to leave Ellesmere, but admitted the chance of leading a club in third place in UniBond division one south was too good to resist.

“It’s real mixed emotions for me,” said the 32-year-old. “I’m over the moon to be offered the chance at Drayton and the potential that goes with it.

“But there is a fantastic group of people – not just players but backroom staff as well – at Ellesmere.

“There are some big shoes to fill at Drayton but I don’t think there is a massive amount to do playing-wise.

“The players don’t need to prove anything to me because I know most of them and the league table doesn’t lie. It’s just about giving them some guidance.”

Former Port Vale apprentice Burton moved into coaching with Ludlow two years ago. He took sole charge at Ellesmere 12 months ago and leaves them three points clear at the top.

Drayton have confirmed Mick Murphy will remain as coach, while Burton will meet his new squad at training tonight before taking charge for the first time in Saturday’s league trip to Lincoln United.

By JAMES GARRISON