Welling United begin search for new management team

Tuesday 08th January 2008

Welling United are searching for a new management team following the departures of manager Neil Smith and his assistant Stuart Nethercott yesterday, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Park View Road club are in a precarious position in the bottom five of the Blue Square South table, with 21 points from 24 games - just four points clear of the drop zone. Former Woking midfielder Smith, who also leaves the club as a player, collected just five wins in those matches and suffered early exits in both the FA Cup and FA Trophy.

And Smith has been the subject of calls to resign from the Welling faithful, having gone nine league games without a win and last Saturday’s 4-0 defeat at Hampton & Richmond Borough proved to be the last straw.

A statement issued by the club yesterday said: “It was mutually agreed between the club and Neil Smith that his reign as Wings boss would end. Assistant Stuart Nethercott has also left.

“Welling will now look to appoint a temporary coach before the weekend until a new manager is found.

“Welling United Football Club would like to wish Neil and Stuart every success in the future.” Meanwhile, Welling United have confirmed that senior players Chris Moore and club captain Richard Carpenter will be in temporary charge until a new manager is found.

The pair will take charge of the training sessions on Thursday night and Saturday – the Wings are without a game due to FA Trophy second round matches taking place.

Visit Welling United's website: www.wellingunited.com