FOUR ADDITIONS TO THE MANAGEMENT TEAM

We're delighted to announce the addition of four highly experienced professionals to Sam Cox’s first team management setup as preparations continue ahead of the new season.

Joining as Assistant Coach - Technical Lead, Danny Payne brings a track record in football development and senior team management. Most recently, Danny was First Team Manager at Biggleswade Town, where he made an immediate impact, guiding the club to the Southern League Division One Central title in his debut season.

In addition to his managerial success, Danny is the Managing Director of the Pro Direct Academy, one of the UK’s largest private football development programmes with over 6,000 registered players aged 5 to 21.

His coaching and talent identification credentials include:

• National Recruitment Co-ordinator at Brighton & Hove Albion

• National Academy Scout for Manchester United

• Academy Scout at Watford FC

• Lead Academy Coach at Stevenage FC

Danny’s combination of academy leadership, first-team success and elite-level recruitment experience makes him a valuable addition to the Stones backroom team.

We also welcome Liam Badcock as Assistant Coach - Tactical Lead, who will work alongside the existing team while continuing his role as Academy Performance Analyst at Arsenal FC. Liam brings a wealth of experience from some of the country’s top academies, having held performance analysis roles at:

• Tottenham Hotspur

• West Ham United

• Stoke City

• Walsall

  
  

Liam assisted Sam whilst manager at Oxford City and was part of Sam's management team at the Stones during his spell as interim that saw us retain our National League status in the 23/24 season. Liam’s expertise in tactical analysis and player development will be instrumental in supporting Sam Cox’s strategic approach on and off the pitch.

We are also pleased to confirm the appointment of Steve Bates as First Team Coach. Steve holds a UEFA B Licence and was most recently Assistant Manager at Hampton & Richmond Borough, competing in the National League South. His experience at that level, alongside his coaching qualifications and tactical understanding, will be a significant asset to Sam Cox and the team.

Completing the quartet of new arrivals is Ethan Brewer, who joins as the club’s new Strength and Conditioning Coach. A qualified personal trainer with a growing reputation in football fitness, Ethan has held previous roles at:

• Watford FC

• Nottingham Forest

• Oxford City

• The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA)

Ethan’s arrival will further enhance the club’s physical performance programme, ensuring that the squad is in peak condition throughout the campaign.

Danny, Liam, Steve and Ethan join Kenny Mutsanya, Jason Scannell, Georgie Turner and Brett Aherne who continue in their roles as key members of Sam Cox’s backroom staff.