The former Brighton and Hove Albion defender signed for the club back in 2015 with the intention of working under Adam Hinshelwood, however Hinshelwood’s resignation followed shortly after and Elphick was offered the chance to steer the ship, alongside Jon Meeney.

The pair guided the club to promotion from Isthmian League Division One South at the first attempt via the play-offs and consolidated in the Premier Division the following season. Meeney stepped away at the back end of that campaign, leaving Elphick in sole charge but a poor start to the season 2017/18 saw him leave his role and eventually be replaced by Hinshelwood’s return to the club.

He returned to concentrating on playing at Burgess Hill Town and then Hastings United before the opportunity of management resurfaced after Chris Agutter vacated the job at the Pilot Field.

Elphick proceeded to repeat his feat of promotion from Isthmian League Division One South East with the U’s, this time by winning the title in 2021/22 and followed it up with a commendable step up to the Premier Division, finishing just three points outside the play-offs last season.

On Elphick’s return Hinshelwood said: “There was a bit of a gap in the coaching team with Buddy moving on”. “Gary has come in and will mainly work with the back four and developing our defensive shape”.

“He’s got a wealth of experience and knows the club well already, so it’s great to have him on board”.