MATT Carmichael says he feels hungry, re-energised and ready to return to football.

The ex-Harwich and Parkeston manager took a year out after parting company with the Shrimpers.

Now he is back, though, and has joined Little Oakley as a coach, working alongside first-team bosses Paul Sadler and Sean Tynan.

He believes the Acorns can go from strength to strength next season, after finishing last term as Essex and Suffolk Border League premier division runners-up and Knockout Cup winners.

And he says he is grateful for the opportunity to join such a “massive” and ambitious local club.

“It was great spending more time with my family, but I love my football on a Saturday afternoon,” said the 34-year-old.

“It’s been a massive part of my life.

“I took a step back and turned down a couple of offers to get back in the game.

“But having a year off gave me a chance to reassess and think about where I am, in terms of my football career.

“Now seems like the right time to return.

“I’m joining in a coaching role, to work on technical and tactical things, and won’t get involved in team selection, unless asked.

“It’s exciting and, in terms of local football, they’re massive in our area.

“You only have to take a trip there on a Sunday morning.

“It’s a hive of activity, with countless youth players and their families playing for the club.

“Oakley have grown and grown and are very ambitious.

“They’re a proper football club, with good people involved at every level – right through the age groups and into the development team, reserves and first team.”