DANNY Barker has returned to Colden Common as manager after a gap of six-and-a-half years.

Barker, who guided the club to the Hampshire League title in 2008/09, replaces out-going duo Sam Dixon and Ken Brady who stepped down in the wake of Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Overton United.

Common are enduring a tough season, marooned at the bottom of the Senior Division with just seven points from 20 games.

Ironically, Saturday’s display was described by chairman Dave Hadfield as “one of our most committed and honest this season”, but Dixon and Brady have opted to relinquish their roles in the hope that a change of direction will turn the club’s fortunes around.

Hadfield explained: “Sam, since the managerial role was thrust upon him in November last year, and Ken (Common’s first Hampshire League manager in harness with ‘Rocky’ Garrett back in 1985) have moved heaven and earth in their efforts to push the club onward and upward but, particularly in the wake of a lack-lustre team display at Hedge End recently, acknowledge that a change of leader may have the desired impact.

“Danny is keen that all players and staff remain with the club as he views a ‘united front’ as the firmest foundation from which to build.

“The officers and members of Colden Common FC wish Danny well in his new role.”

Since leaving Common, Barker has managed the likes of Romsey Town, Sporting Bishops Waltham and QK Southampton.

The ex-Portsmouth, Basingstoke, Andover and AFC Totton defender has more recently been playing for Whitchurch United in the Sydenhams Wessex League.