Full-time reward for Martyrs boss

Pictured signing his new deal after steering the Martyrs to a third place finish in the EVO-STIK League Southern's top flight, Williams will combine working full-time at Penydarren Park with the next generation of academy stars coming through with taking part in the club's community work and managing.

Having played for a number of clubs including Yeovil, West Ham and Woking, Williams signed for his hometown club in December 2013 before being made assistant manager just a few months later and taking the helm in May 2016 following the departure of former Martyrs manager Steve Jenkins.

Williams said: “I’m obviously delighted to have signed this new contract with Merthyr Town. It demonstrates how the club is progressing and hopefully this will be the catalyst to see similar steps being made with first-team players in the future. I’d like to thank the board and the CEO for their work and support since I became manager last season.”

A club spokesman said: "The board are delighted Williams accepted his contract and see it as a positive statement and commitment to the stability of the team."

Fans have been hailing the news on social media since the club's announcement on Thursday. "Well done @MerthyrTownFC and I'm sure all Martyrs' supporters will be delighted to know Gavin is committed to stay at club," tweeted @JulieClareLewis. @BrianTweedy43 posted: "Well done Merthyr on getting gav on full time contract well done Gavin lets go for promotion roll on the new season."

Image courtesy of @MerthyrTownFC/Twitter

Follow the EVO-STIK League Southern on Twitter at @SouthernLeague1