Ashford United unveil Danny Kedwell as their new manager

ASHFORD UNITED have unveiled Danny Kedwell as their new manager.

 

Kedwell has recently departed Isthmian League Premier Division side Chatham Town, where he was assistant manager to Kevin Hake.

Chatham Town finished runners-up to Hornchurch, having picked up 79 points from their 42 league games but missed out on a third successive promotion after losing 3-0 at home to Enfield Town in the Play-Off Final.

Outgoing owner, Don Crosbie said in a statement: “Anyone who knows Danny will understand what a great addition to Ashford United he and his assistant will prove.

“Danny has done amazing at Chatham assisting with back-to-back promotions and just missed out on a consecutive third promotion losing to Enfield in the Play-Off Final.

“Danny’s CV speaks for itself and having known Danny’s style and determination there are two things that stand out. Great football and a desire at all times to win.  Two excellent traits if our ambitions are to be achieved.

“The club’s new owners are fully behind the appointment and are really looking forward to the new season ahead and can’t wait to be fully involved in the push for success here at this great club.”

Ashford United parted company with Kevin Watson on 16 March and Alan Walker and Darren Hare took temporary charge for the last nine games of the season.

Ashford United claimed two wins and seven defeats during that time but have turned to 40-year-old Kedwell, who has previously played for Chatham Town, Tonbridge Angels, Fisher Athletic, Lordswood, Maidstone United, Herne Bay, Welling United, Grays Athletic, AFC Wimbledon, Gillingham, Ebbsfleet United, Havant & Waterlooville, Hollands & Blair, Cray Wanderers and back at Chatham Town.

Kedwell previously player-managed at Cray Wanderers between April 2021 and December 2021, where he lasted 24 games in charge of the Isthmian League Premier Division club.

The Nuts & Bolts had to settle for an eleventh-placed finish in the Isthmian League South East Division table, having picked up 45 points from their 38 league games.

“Firstly, I would like to put on record my sincere gratitude to everyone at Chatham Town Football Club,” said Kedwell.

“My time there has been unbelievable with great memories and making friends for life.

“I wish them every success as they push for greater things, which I’m sure will come.

“Ashford United is a great club, with excellent facilities, people and fans. I can’t wait to get started.

“It’s going to be a busy few month’s planning, getting players in and talking to our current players.  But we will be ready and on the front foot, come the first kick of the new season.”

League rivals, Sittingbourne, meanwhile, have announced that Ryan Maxwell will be in charge at Woodstock Park next season after all.

The Belfast born Maxwell announced his departure on 4 May to be closer to his home – but “decided to stay” at Sittingbourne a couple of days later.

“The club went above and beyond for me to be able to manage the travelling, so I’m happy to stay,” added Maxwell, who guided the Brickies to their highest ever finish in the Isthmian League, of third.

Visit Ashford United’s website: www.ashfordunitedfc.com