The appointment of Tony Russell and Joe Vines reflects AFC Greenwich Borough's continued ambition to build on recent success and continue moving forward

AFC GREENWICH BOROUGH have appointed Tony Russell as their new manager, assisted by Joe Vines, 45.

 

The artist formerly known as Welling United FC Academy on the Companies House website and nothing to do with the club that gave Ian Wright a stepping stone to a professional career in football and now broadcasting, claimed the Southern Counties East Football League First Division title in their debut campaign last season.

The club parted company with their manager Reece Parara after claiming the tenth-tier title and London Senior Trophy and have appointed Russell ahead of Friday’s opening Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division clash away to Erith & Belvedere.

AFC Greenwich Borough will play all of their games away from home until their ground at Footscray Road in Eltham, London SE9, is ready to stage ninth-tier football.

“I am delighted to announce Tony Russell as the manager of AFC Greenwich Borough, along with Joe Vines, who also comes in as assistant manager,” said director of football Gary Fiore.

“Both have a great relationship forged over seasons spent together on the touchline, where they have had many successful periods and promotions.”

Russell, 47, steps into the role after serving as the club’s director of football last season and brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in non-league football, playing an attractive brand of on the deck football.

Russell, who guided VCD Athletic to the Isthmian League Division One North title in 2014, spent six seasons as Cray Wanderers manager, guiding The Wands to the Isthmian League South East Division title five years later.

“Joining Tony in the dug-out is Joe Vines, who takes on the role of assistant manager, reuniting one of non-league footballs most successful management partnerships,” added the club statement.

“Together, they will lead the first team into an exciting new chapter as the club continues its ambitious journey.

“Widely respected throughout non-league football, Tony has built a reputation for developing talented players, creating competitive teams and delivering success on the pitch.

“Having already played an integral role in shaping AFC Greenwich Borough’s footballing vision as director of football, Tony is perfectly placed to lead the first team into its next chapter.

“Tony will once again be joined by Joe Vines as his assistant manager.

“The pair first worked together at Cray Wanderers after Tony signed Joe as a player before later bringing him onto the coaching staff as his assistant, where they spent four successful seasons working side by side.

“They also enjoyed three successful years together at Lewes, continuing to build a strong partnership based on trust, experience and shared ambition.

“Their longstanding relationship and understanding of one another make them an exciting management team for AFC Greenwich Borough.

“Following a historic debut season, the appointment of Tony Russell and Joe Vines reflects the club’s continued ambition to build on recent success and continue moving forward.

“With their experience, leadership and winning mentality, the new management team will look to develop the exciting squad already in place while continuing to provide opportunities for players progressing through the AFC Greenwich Borough pathway.

“Tony has already played a significant role in developing the footballing structure at AFC Greenwich Borough.

“Now, alongside Joe, he will lead the first team with the same vision that has helped shape the club’s identity – creating opportunities, developing players and striving for success both on and off the pitch.”

The original Greenwich Borough withdrew from the Southern Counties East Football League in January 2020.

Current Erith & Belvedere manager Gary Alexander guided Greenwich Borough to the Southern Counties East Football League title in 2016.

Russell has also managed Erith Town and Ramsgate, where he was only in charge for 26 days  in June-July 2024.

www.kentishfootball.co.uk will kick-off our coverage of the 2026-27 campaign at Park View Road on Friday evening.

Visit AFC Greenwich Borough’s website: www.greenwichborough.com