Former Swindon Town manager Matt Taylor has become the new boss at National League side Wealdstone, ahead of the 2024/25 season as confirmed via a statement on their website.
The 42-year-old has had several managerial roles within the EFL and becomes the latest name to manage the National League side, following the departure of interim manager Sam Cox earlier on Friday afternoon.
Speaking to the clubs media team regarding his appointment, Taylor stated…
“I am excited to join Wealdstone, We have a great opportunity to build something special here, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
What experience does Taylor possess?
Taylor was a well-known Premier League footballer, making over 300 appearances for the likes of Portsmouth, West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers before taking a turn into management.
He has since had spells with League Two duo Swindon Town and Walsall as well as League One side Shrewsbury Town and will now bring all of his senior footballing experience into the National League side ahead of the new season.
The next chapter
Wealdstone had three managers last season, each with their own degree of success. The club began with Stuart Maynard who had previously guided the club into the National League and helped to guide them as a regular fifth tier side.
Following his move to Notts County, Wealdstone appointed David Noble in the hope of achieving a mid-table finish following an impressive few seasons in the division. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case for the Stones and Noble was dismissed in April.
Stepping into the hot seat was interim manager Sam Cox who played an important role in keeping the club in the National League. From his five matches in charge, Cox picked up three wins including a victory against league champions Chesterfield as well as a final day win against Oldham Athletic to ensure their survival.
The club are now set to enter next season with a new lease of life under Taylor’s management, where his experience both as a player and manager could help the Stones to have an improved finish.