DARYL McMahon will take charge of Isthmian League Premier Division leaders Hornchurch for the first time as they host Cheshunt on Saturday.

The former Dagenham & Redbridge boss has replaced Steve Morison - who left to take charge of League Two strugglers Sutton United.

And club chairman Alex Sharp is certain McMahon is the right man for the role.

“We were incredibly impressed with the managers who applied for the position and it’s fair to say that any of the candidates we interviewed could have done a job for us but Daryl stood out,” said Sharp.

“His impressive experience and knowledge of the National League set up was a big factor in our decision.

“His philosophy on training and style of play and his desire to win and secure promotion at the earliest opportunity was key for us.

“Daryl wanted to ensure our ambition met his own and that our desire for progress didn’t stop at promotion to the National League South.”

Hornchurch are currently nine points clear at the top of the Isthmian Premier Division standings with a game in hand on second-placed Chatham Town.

They beat Enfield Town 2-1 last weekend, with Femi Akinwande and Sean Scannell on target, and ran out 2-0 winners at Folkestone Invicta on Tuesday, as Joe Christou and Akinwande netted either side of Toby Byron's red card for the hosts.

And Sharp is certain McMahon – who will have former Charlton Athletic boss Steve Gritt as his assistant – is more than capable of maintaining their fine form.

“His knowledge of this level, connections with local clubs in the National Leagues and EFL was important for us,” said Sharp.

“He has the highly experienced Steve Gritt alongside him as his advisor and assistant.

“We think it's a winning combination that will excite the fans and deliver long-term success on and off the pitch.”

And McMahon is delighted to be on board at Bridge Avenue.

“Steve and I are delighted to be joining the club at a very exciting time,” he said.

“It was great to sit down with Alex, Colin [McBride] and the rest of the board to discuss the exciting and ambitious plans for the football club.

“The team has had an excellent season so far and I’m looking forward to meeting and working with the current staff and players in trying to win promotion to the National League South.”

McMahon watched Tuesday night’s win and leads Urchins into battle against a Cheshunt side who are are currently 18th in the table after losing 4-2 against Potters Bar Town in midweek.