BILLERICAY TOWN’s leader Danny Scopes has made an unexpected leap into international management by being appointed as the new head coach of Sealand.

The 52-year-old will juggle this new role while striving for promotion to the National League.

This announcement comes just days after Scopes signed a three-year contract extension with non-league club Billericay.

Located off the coast of Suffolk, the Principality of Sealand boasts just ONE permanent resident.

This tiny micronation, unrecognized by FIFA or UEFA, plays its home matches at Crawley’s Broadfield Stadium.

Sealand emphasizes that Scopes will provide opportunities for players who have not yet stepped onto the international stage to make their mark.

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A statement announced: “We are thrilled to confirm Danny Scopes as the men’s national team manager of Sealand IFC.

“Danny will maintain his position as first-team manager at Billericay Town, with both roles existing simultaneously.

“Danny is not a celebrity hire. He is a committed manager who believes in providing players with genuine opportunities at the international level.

“Sealand embodies this principle – real players, real chances, selected on merit rather than lineage.”

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England manager Thomas Tuchel was able to include Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane in his squad announcement for the upcoming international break.

In contrast, Scopes faces the challenge of forming a team from the ground up post-appointment.

Sealand currently lacks a squad, with trials scheduled ahead of their forthcoming official match.

Previously, Scopes led Concord Rangers to the FA Trophy final, narrowly losing to Harrogate in May 2021.

He also guided Aveley to promotion before taking on the challenge with Essex rivals Billericay.

Julian Dicks, a cult hero in the Premier League known for his time at West Ham and Liverpool, was Sealand’s manager in 2013.

This micronation has been independent since Major Paddy Roy Bates founded it in 1967.

The Sealand Football Association was formed in 2004, and matches have occurred against teams like the Chagos Islands and Alderney.

Notably, actor Ralf Little was among the surprising figures to earn an international cap during Sealand’s first official match 14 years ago.

Also featuring were former Scotland Under-21 goalkeeper Derek Stillie and Simon Charlton, who played for clubs including Southampton and Bolton.