Walthamstow FC: Ryan Maxwell snaps up Craig Pope and Lee Flynn

Experienced centre half Pope arrives from Bostik Premier League side Harlow Town after three years with the Hawks, helping them to finish in 20th place in the division last season and will act as player/assistant manager with Walthamstow.

Pope started his career with Barnet in 2000 and has since enjoyed spells with Cambridge City, Histon, Grays Athletic and AFC Sudbury during his career.

Walthamstow boss Maxwell labelled Pope’s arrival as a ‘massive signing’ and is looking forward to working alongside the experienced centre-half on the touchline.

Speaking to the club’s website, he said: “Craig has been my team mate at Grays and Sudbury, and he’s someone I know inside out.

“The club’s standards on and off the field really have gone up a notch with the signing of Craig. To leave Harlow Town in the Bostik Premier to come here shows the club’s ambition and direction.

“We both see the game the same way. We’re both very demanding people and I know Craig’s itching to get going.”

Pope’s arrival was swiftly followed by the signing of Lee Flynn, who returns to Walthamstow as player/coach, having spent time with the club during the 2016/17 season.

The 44-year-old is vastly experienced having spent over 25 years as a professional since signing for Romford in 1991 and has also enjoyed spells with Hayes, Barnet, Stevenage Borough as well as Dagenham and Redbridge, among others, during his career.

Flynn and Maxwell worked with each other at AFC Sudbury and the Walthamstow boss can’t wait to link up with the 44-year-old once again.

He said: “Lee has over 25 years’ experience in non-league football. I trust his opinion, and thoughts on the game.

“Lee, Craig (Pope) and I were together at Grays Athletic and AFC Sudbury, and I’m excited to be working with them again.

“We’re friends on and off the pitch, and this is another singing who will help create the family atmosphere we want here at Walthamstow.”