Kennett, who is studying for his UEFA B coaching badge, joins Dial after guiding Hambledon to an impressive second place finish in the Surrey County Intermediate League (Western) last season, and on limited resources.

After graduating from Southampton Solvent University with a degree in Sports Management in 2017, Kennett setup JK Coaching to provide extensive grassroots development, one-to-one coaching, and football camps for several education providers across Surrey. He has also been involved with Chelsea’s youth set-up at the Premier League club’s Cobham training facility.

Speaking of Kennett’s appointment, Dial boss Steve Brown said: "I first met Jake properly last season. He introduced himself to me and was really keen to get involved to progress his coaching career.

“He did well while managing Hambledon, steering them to a third-place finish and runners-up last season, and was eager to make the step up with a progressive club.

“Jake brings good energy and has a strong coaching background for developing players, which I believe makes him a very good fit for the coaching role at Dial. I’m really looking forward to working with him."

In response to his appointment, Kennett said: "I have followed Dial’s progress over the past few seasons, so I know how ambitious the club is.

“It was obvious to me that the club is well-run and has the potential to fly through the leagues based on having already achieved four promotions in five seasons. It’s evident that the players have always been given the environment to succeed.

“I have known of Steve [Brown] when Dial were in the Surrey County Intermediate League (Western) and I was the Head Coach and Assistant Manager of Shottermill & Haslemere. You could see the enormous quality that Dial had, so having the opportunity to work with Steve was a big draw for me.”

As an Arsenal fan, Kennett is au fait with the Premier League club’s origins, so having the opportunity to play for a namesake non-league football club in the Southern Combination Football League Division One (step 6) next season only added to the appeal.

He is confident that Dial will continue to attract good quality players; some from higher divisions, who will also be drawn to the fantastic project and ambition of the club.

Kennett was unveiled as Dial’s new first team coach this evening (15 June) when the players reported for training in Guildford.