Howell left his role as No.2 to Robbie Blake — who departed the club three weeks ago — in October but has returned to Nyewood Lane this week to team up with former Bognor skipper Birmingham. He has quit his job as Horndean boss to join the Rocks.
And the management team will take charge of the squad when they head to Potters Bar Town on Saturday for an Isthmian premier division game and do so in desperate need of points to improve their position anchored at the bottom of the table.
Rocks supremo Jack Pearce said he was delighted to welcome the pair back to the club and added that they both possess excellent qualities that he thinks will complement each other as the battle to retain their status starts afresh.
He added: “Both Jamie and Michael care for the club and know what this club stands for and we are excited to have them back with us. They know each other well, and we think they can bring the qualities needed to benefit the club and the community.”
Howell, who managed the Rocks between 2010 and 2017, said: “I am delighted to be back. The conversations I have had with Birmy, Jack and the committee members have all been very positive and we now must try to get back to winning ways as quick as we can. It’s a really exciting project, working with people who really care for the club, as I do. I can’t wait to get started and look forward to the coming games.”
Birmingham said he was sorry to see the position in which the Rocks find themselves but is thrilled to undertake the challenge ahead. He added: “The club has gone into a little bit of free fall which has been sad to see. You’re always hoping your phone will ring. I was in a job and there is no way I was putting my hat in the ring because that would be disrespectful to Horndean. I got the call from Mick Caitlin, my chairman, saying he had given Jack permission to speak to me and we met for two and a half hours with Jamie and it was done and dusted very quickly.
“We know what this football club means to the supporters. The club has been averaging around 600-700 fans and for where they are in the league that is unbelievable. That goes to show they are the best fans about. I see it as a clean slate for everyone and I am really buzzing and looking forward to it. I can’t wait to get started. I want to mention Mick and Ian Sheppard and Horndean, who have been absolutely phenomenal for me and I cannot speak highly enough of the club. Whoever gets that job I wish them all the best, they have walked in to one hell of a football club.”
