BALLYMENA United have appointed Gareth Montgomery as the the new manager of the club's Reserve Team.

Formerly a successful coach at the Ballymena United Youth Academy at various levels, he coached Larne based side Wellington Rec. last season before returning the Showgrounds on the recommendation of Wesley Gregg.

Montgomery replaces Colin Sewell who spent only one season in charge of United's second string before stepping up to join the senior coaching staff which has seen a complete overhaul during the last 12 months.

Walker is also likely to confirm former Sky Blues' favourite Nigel Boyd (pictured) as Gareth Montgomery's assistant coach.

'Boydie', a veteran of 300+ appearances in a Sky Blue shirt left the club in 2008 after 13 seasons with his hometown club, after a season with Bangor he spent last season with his brother (Alan) at Clough Rangers Athletic in the Ballymena Intermediate League.

Melvyn Logan and Boyd's former team-mate Mark Carlisle are to remain in charge of the club's Youth Team following an impressive first season which seen them win the IFA Youth League Cup in May.