Justin Merritt has set a target of a return to the Evo-Stik Southern League after taking over as Witney Town manager.

The former Witney midfielder, who helped steer Oxford City Nomads to the Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division title with joint manager Justin Lee last season, has taken over at Marriott’s Stadium following the resignation of Mark Love last month.

“I’m delighted to be appointed and now the first aim is to build a squad able to compete in that league,” said Merritt. “Then the eventual aim is to get the club back into the Southern League.”

Meanwhile, Merritt has sent a good luck message to Chris Fontaine, who has taken over as boss at Nomads after leaving Abingdon Town.

Merritt said: “I’m very pleased for Chris and hopefully it will work out for him.”