Former island boss Tardif named new Rangers manager

Tardif, who has put aside other potential roles in domestic football, has already set lofty targets aligned with the club’s ambitions.

‘After some time to reflect and consider a few different options that had presented themslves, I’m excited to be taking on the role of Priaulx manager at Rangers next season,’ he said.

‘A new wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm at all positions around the club is something that I wish to add to and was also a big draw for me.

‘I know the current standing of the Priaulx team makes it appear that this is an odd choice but with the wealth of youth talent we have at our disposal and the plans we have in place I am very confident this great old club can re-establish itself as a strong force in a short time, with the ambition to challenge for the league title inside three seasons.

‘The project sold to me, much of which has to be kept under wraps for a short while, is very exciting. It is a big challenge and the sort I want to undertake and I know that I thrive on.

‘I have really missed the regular involvement in the game, but football is something I love and care about deeply. This role excites me greatly and I will be giving it my all as I know the rest of the staff will be, and that’s what I will be expecting from the players.

‘I believe Rangers are going places and with everything being out in place by our Jon [Robilliard] and Mark Bousfield, the club’s future is much brighter than some may think by simply looking at the Priaulx League table.’

Club president Jono Robilliard called it a big coup for Rangers to attract a manager of such experience and knowledge.

‘From early on this season when we appointed Colin Fallaize as the club’s head coach, we have been working hard to supplement that appointment by further strengthening our coaching teams in the senior ranks,’ he said.

‘Colin will continue in his current role, which he will share with his commitments to Guernsey FC, and I know is delighted with the confirmation he will be working with the former Bournemouth, Portsmouth and Oxford United keeper in the summer pre-season and beyond.’

First-team captain Shane Billien and Rob Cowley will continue to take responsibility for selecting and running the side until the end of the current season and are on-board with the club’s move in this direction.

‘We have been very grateful that the boys stepped in to fill the vacancy created by Rex Williams’ departure very early in this campaign,’ said Robilliard.