Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 10, 2024 2:45 pm GMT
Ebbsfleet United Welcomes New Manager Harry Watling Following Rough Start to Season
Ebbsfleet United has made a swift decision in the wake of a disappointing start to the National League season by appointing Harry Watling as its new manager. The announcement comes just days before the team’s highly anticipated home match against Hartlepool United this Saturday. Watling, 34, was officially named as the club’s manager following the dismissal of Danny Searle, who left the Fleet sitting at the bottom of the league table after only managing to secure one point in the first seven games.
A New Era Begins
The Appointment of Harry Watling
Harry Watling’s resume includes notable experience with high-profile football clubs. His most recent position was as a first-team coach at Glasgow Rangers, where he contributed to the development of the team in the Scottish Premier League. Before his tenure there, he served at Queens Park Rangers (QPR) and had an impactful stint as head coach of the USL Championship side Hartford Athletic, where he set records for the most goals scored and most clean sheets in a single season. Watling is one of the youngest coaches in England to hold UEFA A, B, and Pro licenses, having started his coaching journey at Chelsea’s Academy at just 20 years old.
Building a Quality Coaching Team
Joining Watling is assistant manager David Kerslake and first-team coach John Cotton. Kerslake brings a wealth of experience from his playing days in the Premier League with teams like QPR and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as coaching spells that include successful promotions with multiple clubs. Meanwhile, John Cotton’s background is rooted in youth development, having recently been part of Charlton Athletic’s academy.
David Kerslake brings extensive managerial experience to his role as assistant manager at Ebbsfleet United.
Watling’s Vision for the Fleet
In his first statement as manager, Watling expressed excitement about leading Ebbsfleet United. “I’m delighted to be here. It’s a brilliant setup at Ebbsfleet and it was really important to align myself with a club that allows me to play football on the front foot and the way I want to play it,” he said. He emphasized his commitment to developing players and establishing a strong team culture. Watling also cautiously acknowledged the challenging start to the season but remains optimistic for the upcoming games.
Support from the Club Leadership
Ebbsfleet United’s CEO, Damian Irvine, underscored the thorough selection process used to find Watling. “We are very strong on getting the right characters into this football club through rigorous processes, people who are devoted to the job, to the club, and to their desire to succeed. Harry is one of those,” Irvine noted. He stressed that the new management team’s immediate goal is to reverse the club’s fortunes in the National League.
The Road Ahead
Setting Expectations
Watling’s first match as manager will be a home game against Hartlepool United, where fans hope to see a turning point in the team’s performance. Watling has already remarked positively on the players’ commitment and readiness shown during training and in their recent matches, stating, “It was a marker for the bare minimum I want to see.”
Overcoming Early Challenges
The withdrawal of Danny Searle, who guided the team away from relegation last season but faced criticism for the current streak of poor results, adds additional pressure on Watling as he takes the reins. Searle, who was initially appointed to stabilize the team, struggled this season, accumulating just one point from a potential 21. Since his departure, interim management fell to midfielder Josh Wright, who led the squad to a goalless draw against Aldershot Town.
Watling’s design for success includes instilling a strong work ethic and commitment to attractive, attacking football that captivates the team’s supporters and stakeholders.
Conclusion
Harry Watling is stepping in as the new manager of Ebbsfleet United, and he is ready to make a difference! He has lots of experience and big ideas for the team’s future. With help from Kerslake and Cotton, the new management team wants to boost how the team plays and what they aim for in the National League. This Saturday, fans will see if Watling’s leadership can lead the club to better days. Everyone is excited as the team prepares for their next match against Hartlepool United!
