BOSS Tom Killick says the appointment of Callum Brooks as father Shaun Brooks’s successor at Poole Town is “purely coincidental”.

The 30-year-old has replaced the former Cherries assistant manager as head coach of the Southern League Premier Division outfit.

Callum Brooks quit as manager of Wessex One New Milton earlier this week, while Shaun Brooks left Tatnam after just two months to seek a return to the pro ranks.

Shaun Brooks, who had an informal role coaching the youth and under-21 teams at Poole last season, had an ill-fated spell alongside Paul Groves at Dean Court in 2012.

Killick told the Daily Echo: “Shaun told me he wanted to get back into the professional game and it was probably better for everyone to part company sooner rather than later because there was no point having someone who was not going to be here much longer.

“Callum had some involvement with our under-21s previously and a lot of our younger players went to New Milton. He gives us a bit of continuity, he knows us and we know him. Him being Shaun’s son is purely coincidental.

“I think it will work well. Callum had a young and vibrant team at New Milton and was reasonably successful. He progressed and developed young players and I am sure everyone connected to local football would acknowledge he did a good job.”

Killick confirmed Callum Brooks would fulfil the same role as his father – overseeing the development of the under-21s and coaching the first team – and said all other backroom roles would remain unaltered.

Meanwhile, former Cherries striker Alan Connell could be in line for a first league start when Poole visit Premier Division rivals Slough on Saturday (3pm).

Summer signing Connell, who has made four substitute appearances, may replace Richard Gillespie who is struggling with a tight calf.

Lewis Lindsey and Will Spetch are both available, although Luke Burbidge will miss Dolphins’ Bank Holiday double header. They host Frome on Monday.

Meanwhile, Matt Groves has agreed to hold the fort at Sydenhams Wessex Premier Verwood following the shock departure of manager Carl Poore.

Striker Groves, who took the reins for their 1-1 draw with Follands last night, will also be in charge when the Potters visit Western League Division One outfit Almondsbury UWE in the preliminary round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

Chairman Steve Jefferis has asked Groves to fulfil the manager’s role for four games before a decision is made on Poore’s permanent replacement.

Also in the FA Cup on Saturday, Christchurch travel to Western League Premier Division Bradford Town, while Hamworthy United host Wessex Premier rivals Andover Town.

Bournemouth Poppies entertain Alresford in Wessex Premier, while New Milton host Hythe & Dibden in Wessex One and Ringwood visit AFC Stoneham.