Ahead of their return to the National League, Torquay United have agreed a new contract with manager Gary Johnson.
After replacing Gary Owers in mid-September 2018, former Yeovil Town, Bristol City and Cheltenham Town manager Johnson led the Gulls from 14th place to the National League South title, which they won after finishing ten points clear of second-place Woking.
And Johnson, who has made four new signings over the summer in the form of Lucas Covolan, Armani Little, Manny Duku and Jake Andrews - with the latter returning to Plainmoor on a permanent basis after spending last season on loan from Bristol City - didn't need a lot of persuading in terms of putting pen to paper.
“It was a no-brainer for me,” said Johnson. “I really have enjoyed my time here. I just thought it was a natural thing to do because I’ve got no thoughts of going anywhere, doing anything else, because I’ve enjoyed what’s been happening to the football club, and I’m pleased to be a part of it.”
This news comes straight after the release of the 2019-20 National League fixtures which sees United start the season at home to Boreham Wood, who they bowed out of the FA Trophy to after extra time in December 2018.
They will also be facing Johnson's former club Yeovil as part of a festive double header as the Gulls travel to Huish Park on Boxing Day. The two sides will then meet again on New Year's Day at Plainmoor, shortly after Woking, who were promoted from National League South along with United, visit United on 28th December.
Since Johnson's appointment the Gulls have also broken a number of records which include:
• Biggest FA Cup win (7-0 v Lymington)
• Most consecutive league wins (10)
• Most league games unbeaten (16)
• Most goals (93)
• Best goal difference (+52)
• Most league wins (27)
• Fewest league defeats (8)
• Most points (88)
• Fastest ever goal (10 seconds, Kalvin Kalala v St Albans – away)
