Portland has announced a new management team ahead of their Wessex League clash with US Portsmouth on Saturday (September7).

The Blues announced on Wednesday that manager Kyle Critchell and his assistant Jamie Symes had stepped down from their roles to focus on life away from the pitch. 

It has now been revealed that Shaun Bessant and Josh Hickman will take up the reins as joint managers, with Crit Clarke coming in as first team coach. 

READ: Portland United management team step down from roles

Speaking to Echosport about the pairs joint appointment, Hickman said: "Besso and I have worked together for a year and a half  and we work well with each other and are aligned with how the club wants to move forward and keep developing players.

"Kyle and Jamie have done a lot for Shaun and I, it's sad [they have left] but it is an exciting opportunity for Shaun and we can't wait to get going."

US Portsmouth have had a poor start to the season and find themselves languishing just above the relegation zone in 18th with just one win from their five games.

However, Hickman is not underestimating the The RN with the Blues having not won themselves in their last three games and with a much depleted squad. 

READ: Portland manager praises young team after Portchester defeat

He added: "We would love nothing more than to start with a win but it will be an extremely tough game as we still have a stretched squad.

"They have had a mixed start and won't be too happy with their results but a stand out one was the 2-0win over Brockenhurst.

"It will be their first home game so it will be a tough test. 

"They have a god defensive structure and are a threat on the transitions that we will have to be cautious of."

Hickman says that Critchell and Symes had 'set the foundations' and the he and Bessant will only be making 'tweaks' to the side as they focus on getting players back fit and available for selection.

He said: "We don't wan't to change too much. 

"Out of possession we are happy with the team but we want to develop the lads in possession and bring our ideas and an evolution to our style of football."

READ: Match report for Portland United 0-3 AFC Portchester

The Blues go into the tie with a raft of players injured or unavailable. 

Hickman confirmed that Connor Callow has had a setback in his recovery and is expected to be out 'long term'.

Darren Husher is suspended, whilst Ben Holloway is unavailable as is in form striker Greg Borthwick who recently became a father.

Joe Wickham has returned to training but Saturady's game has 'come to soon' according to Hickman who also revealed that Archie Woolford and Crit Clarke face late fitness tests.

Kick off at The Victory Stadium is at 3pm on Saturday, September 7.