6 June 2026

EDDY JONES STAYS

Of those thirteen just four had been named by midweek as having signed new contracts, namely Tom Crawford, Matty Kosylo, Lewis Banks and Jake Cooper.

A fifth name can now be added to that list as Altrincham C announce that "Eddy Jones [right] has agreed a new deal to remain at The J.Davidson Stadium.

Since first arriving at the club from Stoke City, Jones has developed into one of the National League's standout left backs and has played a key role in the club's recent success...

{But in 2024] he suffered an ACL injury that brought his campaign to a sudden halt.

Following months of rehabilitation, he returned to action at the beginning of December 2025 and was virtually ever present through to the end of last season...

Eddy Jones said 'I'm delighted to be staying at Altrincham. This is a club that has always shown belief in me and somewhere I've enjoyed every minute of my football.

'Getting back playing regularly again was a massive personal achievement after the injury, and I'm excited to build on that heading into next season. There's a great group here and I can't wait to get going again'.

Manager Neil Gibson added 'Eddy's quality is obvious for everyone to see. He gives us balance, energy and real quality down the left hand side, and he was excellent for us after returning to the team.

'The way he applied himself during his recovery and then performed week after week when he came back says everything about his character'...

Director of Football John Coyne commented 'Eddy has been an outstanding player for this football club over a number of seasons now... To return in December and perform at the level he did for the remainder of the season was hugely impressive. We're delighted he's agreed to stay and believe he has some of his best football still ahead of him'".

Footnote: Last season Eddy added 18(+5) appearances in all competitions to his tally of appearances for the Robins. In all he has now made 136(+11) appearances and scored four times.

SAM REED REJOINS PARKY

Injury limited Reed's appearances to 11(+10) appearances in the National League, plus a further two appearances from the bench in cup competitions.

Now Chester FC announce the signing of "versatile left-back Sam Reed after his release from Altrincham!

The 23-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a two-year-deal at the Deva Stadium...

The gaffer [Phil Parkinson] previously signed Reed for the aforementioned Robins last summer, signing for the National League outfit from Sheffield Wednesday’s youth setup.

Blues boss Phil Parkinson said 'He can play on either side as a full-back, operate in midfield, or play further forward on the wing, which gives us excellent flexibility across a number of positions.

'More importantly, he’s a top football player and very fast. He’s comfortable on the ball, intelligent in his decision-making, and someone who can impact games in a variety of ways. Players with Sam’s technical ability and versatility are difficult to find, so we’re fortunate to have been able to bring him to the football club.

'One thing you’ll notice with a lot of the younger players we’ve brought into the building is a common trait. They all have a real desire and ambition to get back to, or reach, the EFL. Sam is no different. He’s hungry, driven and determined to push his career forward, and that’s exactly the type of mentality we want in the group'...

Sam said 'The gaffer came to me really early in the off-season to tell me that he really wanted me here. I’m very much what people would call a modern full-back, I like to drive forward and pass the ball. I really like the style of play that the Gaffer uses'".

Chester FC has a video interview with Reed.

BARNES BANNED

Sam Barnes (right) was controversially sent off in Alty's away game at Woking on 31 March 2026 for executing an overhead kick which the referee deemed worthy of a red card. He then served a three-match ban. However, the FA has now reported a further disciplinary measure against the Alty defender, dated 1 May 2026

It headlines this as an "INCIDENT OUTSIDE THE JURISDICTION OF MATCH OFFICIALS BUT REPORTED TO THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (FAST TRACK) – NON-STANDARD CASE: Mr Samuel Barnes, Player, Altrincham FC...

Breach of FA Rule E1 and E3.1 - It is alleged that during the half time interval, following your dismissal in the match, you acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words in or around the match officials’ changing room.

Regulatory Commission Decision

• Charge Proven
• Fine: a £250 fine.
• Suspension: 2-match suspension.
• The entirety of both the suspension and the fine are suspended until the conclusion of the 2026/27 season (30 June 2027)".

However there then appears to have been an "Appeal Board...

The grounds upon which The FA appealed were that the Commission:

• 1. misinterpreted or failed to comply with the Rules and/or regulations of The Association relevant to its decision; and/or
• 2. came to a decision to which no reasonable such body could have come; and/or
• 3. imposed a penalty, award, order or sanction that was so unduly lenient as to be unreasonable.

APPEAL BOARD RESULT:

• Appeal Allowed
• An immediate 2-match suspension is imposed
• £500 fine imposed"

So it seems that Barnes will be banned for the first two games of next season. He is one of the remaining players listed as in discussions with Altrincham about a contract for next season.

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW

• Scarf & Pin Badge: 298 G Woods
• Bottle of Alty Gin: 351 P. Jackson
• £25 : 261 Pat Ball
• Hospitality for 2: 230 D. Southworth
• £75: 258 R Knight
• £500: 139 E McNeill

ALTY OLD BOYS

In Australia's NPL Victoria, CONNOR HAMPSON played the full game at home to St.Albans, but Oakleigh Cannons dropped vital points.

Having been behind after a howler by their goalkeeper, they fought back to lead after 56 minutes, only to concede a late equaliser against the run of play. Cannons remain top of the league, but are only a point clear of Hume City, who have taken 19 points from the last 21 available.

South Korea K League 2 : MARCUS DACKERS was dropped to the bench by Daegu for their home match against Paju Frontier. With the game goalless after 66 minutes, he might have hoped to be called into action, but instead they threw on the 39 year old Brazilian Edgar and, within a minute, he scored what turned out to be the only goal of the match.

Marcus finally got onto the pitch in the 101st minute and still had time for a 4 minute cameo.

Seniors' World Cup In England's semi-final match, when LEE ELAM crossed from the left for KEVIN ELLISON to finish tidily at the far post, England were 3-0 up just before the break. Australia pulled a goal back just after the hour, but soon found themselves 5-1 down, and a converted late penalty was scant consolation.

In the Final, England will play France. Their semi-final with the USA finished goalless, but the Americans converted only once in the shootout to lose it 2-1".

.

ROCHDALE BOSS GOES

Our high regard for Jimmy is such that, as a forward-thinking Football Club, we have always had succession plans in place should he move on, particularly after last season’s promotion.

A number of candidates have been identified, and discussions are well underway. We aim to complete this process promptly to give ourselves the best possible preparation time ahead of our Sky Bet League Two campaign. We will keep supporters informed every step of the way".

Also, Rochdale have issued an open letter from Jimmy McNulty in which he writes that "after 11 incredible years at Rochdale AFC, my chapter has come to an end" .

THIRTY GONE IN JUST OVER A YEAR

Just three other managers will be starting their second successive full season in the NL; Luke Garrard (Boreham Wood), Robbie Savage (FGR) and Andy Butler (Scunthorpe United).

The above situation has arisen because...

In little more than one calendar year, there have now been THIRTY managerial departures from clubs who have or will have played in the National League during 2026.

All of those thirty changes have occurred between 26 May 2025, when Neil Gibson left Wealdstone, and 5 June 2026, a period of just one year and eleven days. That is one departure every 12 and a half days during that period.

The 30 departures from clubs who have, or will have, competed in the National League in 2026 comprise:

• 5 departures so far in the close season of 2026
• 4 departures in the close season of 2025 from clubs which went on to compete in the NL in 2025-26
• 21 departures during the 2025-26 playing season

Departures in the close season between the end of the 2025/26 season and the start of the 2026/27 season:

1. KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS Adam Murray left on 12 May 2026 to take up a position at Barrow. Replaced by Paul Wotton as announced on 26 May 2026.
2. SOUTHEND UNITED: Kevin Maher sacked 19 May 2026.
3. GATESHEAD: Rob Elliott left on 27 May 2026
4. CARLISLE UNITED: Mark Hughes left by mutual agreement and Rob Elliot appointed in his place on 28 May 2026
5. ROCHDALE: Jimmy McNulty left promoted Rochdale for Stockport County on 5 June 2026

Changes during the 2025 close season:

1. WEALDSTONE: Neil Gibson resigned on 26 May 2025 and the club appointed Sam Cox.
2. FC HALIFAX TOWN: Chris Millington left on 27 May 2025 and Adam Lakeland was appointed on 14 June 2025
3. GATESHEAD: Carl Magnay resigned on 2 June 2025 and was replaced by Alun Armstrong
4. FOREST GREEN ROVERS: sacked Steve Cotterill, as announced on 26 June 2025, and appointed Robbie Savage 1 July 2025.

Departures during the 2025/26 playing season:

The TWENTY-ONE departures in 2025-26 season are listed below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

1. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025, replaced by Ashvir Singh Johal
2. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood, replaced by Stuart Maynard (28 August 2025)
3. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper, replaced by Danny Webb
4. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor, replaced by Chris Millington (1 October 2025)
5. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison, replaced by Chris Agutter
6. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis, replaced by Scott Bartlett (24 September 2025)
7. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation), replaced by Billy Rowley (25 November 2025)
8. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson, replaced by Nicky Featherstone
9. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation), replaced by John Coleman
10. ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson, replaced by Neil Gibson
11. GATESHEAD: Alun Armstrong moved to a new role, replaced by Rob Elliot
12. BOSTON UNITED: "Parted company" with Graham Coughlan, replaced by Paul Hurst
13. BRACKLEY TOWN: "Resignation" of Gavin Cowan, appointed at Shrewsbury Town, replaced by Andy Whing on 17 February 2026
14. MORECAMBE: "Mutually agreed to part ways" with Ashvir Singh Johal, replaced by Jim Bentley, 1 February 2026
15. EASTLEIGH: Scott Bartlett, "relieved of his duties", replaced as "interim manager" by Richard Hill before Matt Gray was appointed 14 May 2026
16. WEALDSTONE: Sam Cox, "removed from his position as manager", replaced by Gary Waddock
17. WOKING: Neal Ardley, "relieved of duties" replaced by interim trio of Craig Ross, Jake Hyde and Dale Gorman before Jermain Defoe was appointed, 29 March 2026
18. MORECAMBE: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Jim Bentley was stepping down as manager and that the search for a new manager had begun
19. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Nicky Featherstone would not be continuing as manager after the end of 25/26 season. Lee Clark was appointed on 14 May 2026
20. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Club announced on 20 April 2026 that John Coleman would not be continuing as manager after the end of 25/26 season; Scott Davies announced as new manager on 27 April 2026
21. FC HALIFAX TOWN: On 30 April Adam Lakeland departed from FC Halifax Town to become the manager at Morecambe. On 19/5/26 John McGrath was appointed.

In addition, another category should be noted: Managers appointed in close season 2026 to fill vacancies created during 2025-26 season.

• HARTLEPOOL UNITED appointed Lee Clark on 14 May 2026
• EASTLEIGH appointed MATT GRAY on 14 May 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 34-year-old centre-forward has agreed a one-year contract at Victoria Park through to June 2027, with the Club holding an option to extend the agreement by a further year until June 2028...

Hugill becomes Lee Clark’s first signing as Hartlepool United Head Coach and arrives at Victoria Park with one of the most accomplished playing CVs in the National League, having made more than 450 senior appearances, scored 94 career goals, recorded over 300 Championship appearances and played in the Premier League.

The striker returns to Hartlepool more than a decade after a memorable loan spell in 2015, when his four goals in eight appearances helped secure the Club’s Football League status...

After emerging through the non-league game, Hugill established himself at Preston North End... before earning a £10 million move to Premier League side West Ham United in January 2018.

He would go on to represent Middlesbrough, Queens Park Rangers, Norwich City, West Bromwich Albion, Cardiff City and Rotherham United, while also playing a key role in Norwich City’s Championship title-winning promotion campaign in 2020/21.

Hugill joins Pools following a three-and-a-half-year spell with Rotherham United... He worked closely with Head Coach Lee Clark during his time at Rotherham United"

Clark said "To attract a player of his calibre, experience and reputation is a real statement of intent from Pools".

Hartlepool United have also published an interview with Hugill who stated “It’s where I wanted to come. I wanted to be part of the project that’s going on and I wanted to come home. That’s why I’m here".

Forest Green Rovers "announce the signing of Oli Ewing from Scunthorpe United.

The 23-year-old has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal at The New Lawn, becoming our third signing of the summer transfer window.

Ewing made 49 appearances for Scunthorpe last season, scoring 3 goals and establishing himself as a key figure in their midfield throughout their National League campaign.

First Team Manager Robbie Savage said... 'I've known him for a while through the Wales youth set-up and being friends with [my son] Charlie, so I already know the character and quality he brings. He's a player who fits exactly what we want to build here, and I think the fans are really going to enjoy watching him. It's going to be great to work with him every day; he's got a bright future'".

GREEN AGAIN AT THE JDS

ALTY OLD BOYS

In the USL League One, Corpus Christi's wait for their first league win of the season was finally satisfied as they came from behind twice to beat visitors Portland Hearts of Pine 3-2. They were 0-1 down at the break, and having equalised found themselves 1-2 down in added time. A 95th minute own goal put them level - and 3 minutes later SAM ROSCOE scored his first goal for the club to clinch victory.

The win lifts them off the foot of the table at the expense of Westchester and New York Cosmos, although those 2 sides are only a point behind. Westchester have 2 games in hand, and Cosmos have 1. The South Texas club's goal difference is still the worst in the division.

Back in England, in the National League, Kidderminster Harriers have an interview with CALLUM DOLAN (right) following his arrival at Aggborough.

Dolan "says the opportunity to work with Paul Wotton again made his move to Harriers an easy decision... The attacking midfielder became the first new signing of the Wotton era at Aggborough after following the manager from Torquay United, where the pair worked closely together...

'I know Paul really well, football level and personal level,' Dolan said. 'He’s someone that I look up to. He’s played a lot of league football games, he’s managed at a lot of good clubs.

'So I’m delighted to be back with him. When I found out he was coming here, we’ve been in regular contact... We share the same morals probably most importantly,' he said. 'So we’re both passionate, we work ridiculously hard and we are both winners'" he concluded.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Meanwhile, prospective buyer and Huddersfield Giants rugby league club owner Ken Davy has announced he will 'not be progressing' his interest in purchasing the stadium and its surrounding estate — though he has indicated he may consider a rental arrangement instead.

Reform UK had pledged to review the future of The Shay at the first Cabinet meeting of the new municipal year, scheduled for Monday, 13 July...

The Shay serves as the home ground for Halifax's two professional sports clubs — football's FC Halifax Town and rugby league's Halifax Panthers".

Sutton United "confirm the signing of Manny Osadebe, who joins the club on a permanent deal following his departure from Barnet.

The Irishman boasts a wealth of Football League experience primarily through spells at Gillingham, Macclesfield Town, Walsall and Bradford City...

He made 42 appearances for [Gillingham] in total before joining Cambridge United, spending a period out on loan at Newport County, before making a permanent switch away from the Abbey Stadium in 2019.

Osadebe opted to join a financially stricken Macclesfield Town, who were forced to part ways with the midfielder... taking him to Walsall, a place where he made 91 appearances...

He then went on to make it more than 200 Football League appearances with spells at Bradford City, Forest Green Rovers and Barnet, either side of a brief stint in the National League due to the Green’s relegation in 2024...

He appeared 41 times ... before earning a move back into the fourth tier with Dean Brennan’s newly promoted Bees".

Barrow announce that "After four years, our partnership with SO Legal comes to a conclusion this summer... This marks the beginning of an exciting new opportunity. The club is now welcoming expressions of interest from businesses looking to become our new Stadium Sponsor....

Stadium sponsorship offers a unique platform for brand exposure, community engagement, and partnership.

We can also confirm the finalisation [end] of our relationships with both Newfoundland & Labrador, and KeyIn College. Our two-year connection to the Canadian province was a fantastic experience for everybody involved and we appreciate their support during that time...

A deep dive into our new sleeve sponsors Fibrus, as well as more information about our back of shirt sponsor Cumbria Roofing will be available this week...

We can confirm to supporters that Holker Street will be referred to as Holker Street across website, social and written club publications from this point onwards, until a new stadium sponsorship should be found".

Solihull Moors report that "Following several weeks of discussions between the Club and Laurie Walker regarding the 2026/27 season, we have unfortunately been unable to reach an agreement that works for both parties.

Having started every National League fixture during the 2025/26 campaign, Laurie departs Damson Park having been an outstanding servant to the Club and a key figure both on and off the pitch throughout his time with the Moors"

Until the National League AGM on Saturday, 6 June, York City technically remain a National League club. On Thursday, 4 June, the BBC reports that "York City have accepted a seven-figure bid for defender Malachi Fagan-Walcott from Heart of Midlothian, BBC Radio York has confirmed.

The 24-year-old centre-half is yet to agree personal terms with the Scottish Premiership runners-up but, if the transfer goes through, it would be a club record sale.

York City's previous record was set in 1999 when Sheffield Wednesday paid £950,000 for Richard Cresswell.

Fagan-Walcott began his career at Tottenham Hotspur and had loan spells at Dundee and Dunfermline Athletic.

He moved to York City on loan in 2024 before signing a permanent deal in January 2025".

At Woking "the Club will undertake a significant floodlight upgrade at the Laithwaite Community Stadium during the 2026 close season, with the existing floodlighting system being converted to modern LED technology...

The new LED system will provide improved lighting performance and efficiency while also reducing energy consumption and minimising unnecessary light spill beyond the stadium footprint...

While the overall appearance and structure of the existing floodlight gantries will remain unchanged, the underlying lighting technology itself will be comprehensively modernised through the installation of new LED units and associated electrical upgrades.

The Club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to the Cards Trust for their generous financial contribution, as well as the Premier League Stadium Fund for their support towards the project".

4 June 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Seniors' World Cup: Although neither KEVIN ELLISON (right, in his Alty days) nor LEE ELAM started England's second group game, in which they beat Taiwan 4-1, they were probably among the rolling substitutes allowed by the rules of the competition. The final group game sees them play the USA, who have also won their first two games.

Phil adds that in the competition they play games in four quarters not two halves and a player who goes off can come back on. There's a requirement for there to be 3 players from each of 3 different age groups on the pitch at any given time as well.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A big player for the club over the last two seasons, thank you for your service and good luck in the next stage of your career!"

Later, the Lancaster Guardian reported that "Morecambe manager Adam Lakeland has brought in a familiar face...

Central defender Will Smith has been announced as Morecambe’s first summer signing...

The 27-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Shrimps, upon the end of his contract with FC Halifax Town...

A former youngster at Barnsley, Smith also featured for Harrogate Town, Scunthorpe United and York City prior to joining Halifax two years ago...

Smith said 'The size of the club is a big factor, I came in last week and the stadium is nice, it’s big. The club has got history, it’s got the feel of a proper football club.

'Behind the scenes, they’ve got some big plans and a very good vision for the next three years which made my decision easier and I’m excited'...

Lakeland added that Smith "has unwavering commitment to his teammates, he loves to compete, he can play and, in the opponents’ box, he has a real desire to get on the end of things and score goals.

'In my mind he will be one of the best central defenders in this league'".

At Kidderminster Harriers "Ben Crompton is our second new signing of the summer after agreeing terms with the Reds.

The versatile defender recently departed Ross County having spent last season with the Scottish Championship outfit.

Capable at the heart of defence and on the right, Ben has crucial National League experience thanks to a hugely beneficial spell with Tamworth. He made 25 appearances for the Lambs on loan from Sunderland in 2024-25

22-year-old Ben had joined the Black Cats from Shrewsbury Town in 2022".

Unlike at Altrincham where season ticket holders can no longer reserve a particular seat, at Southend United "Every Shrimper has their place at Roots Hall.

It’s the seat you know by heart. It’s the stand you call home. It’s catching up with familiar faces on your way to the stadium, taking your place amongst the noise, and being part of a community brought together as one, by Southend United.

As we look ahead to the 2026/27 season, we do so in a landmark year for the football club. 120 years of Southend United...

For the 2026/27 campaign, we are freezing season ticket prices. It’s our way of recognising your loyalty as we celebrate our history, continue building for the future, and look to create more lifelong memories together".

Sutton United "confirm the departure of Liam Vincent, who will make the move to East London joining Dagenham & Redbridge.

The wing-back arrived in South London in the summer of 2025 and was a regular in the team prior to Chris Agutter’s appointment in October before playing a little over an hour in the Head Coach’s maiden match in charge away at Braintree Town.

He then suffered an injury in training which kept him out for the next four months, before returning to action in the Surrey Senior Cup Quarter-Final against Horley Town, and in total appeared eleven times for the U’s last season.

Vincent also spent the backend of the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Dorking Wanderers, initially joining the club on a one-month deal, before extending it until the end of the season. He played 14 times during his stint at Meadowbank, helping them reach the play-off semi-final, and returned from injury to appear on the bench against Maidenhead United, before coming on after half-an-hour in the semi-final defeat against Torquay United".

3 June 2026

KEVIN SINFIELD AND VIV ANDERSON TO WALK FROM ALTY TODAY

Altrincham FC will play a big part in the first half of the walk, with former Alty players, Gary Scott (left, with Mark Maddox) and Ged Kielty walking for 3 days to complete the first half of the walk at Stockport County’s Edgley Park ground on Wednesday evening around 6pm...

The final stages of the first half of ‘March of the Day III’ on Wednesday, sees the walkers calling at Manchester United FC; Swinton Lions RLFC; Altrincham FC; Wythenshawe FC; Stockport County FC.

On Wednesday afternoon, 25-30 Altrincham FC walkers, including the 2025/26 Manager’s Player of the Year, Matty Kosylo, Director of Football John Coyne, former Manchester United and England international, Viv Anderson, and ex Lancs cricketer Ian Davidson, will join Gary, Ged and around a hundred fellow walkers from The J.Davidson Stadium, walking to Wythenshawe FC’s Hollyhedge Park ground in Sharston.

Kevin Sinfield, the legendary former Leeds Rhinos and England Rugby League Player, who has raised over £11 million for Motor Neurone Disease in memory of his best friend and colleague, Rob Burrow, will be walking from Swinton Lions RLFC (Heywood Road, Sale) to The J.Davidson Stadium and on to Wythenshawe FC and Edgeley Park.

Altrincham FC is delighted to be playing an important role in this event, particularly as Motor Neurone Disease has very sadly taken two former Alty players, Mark Maddox and George Melling, as well as lifelong fan, Jez Spruce, from us.

If you would like to donate, please visit here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Lee (right) played 21 times for the Robins in 2008-9 before moving on to Northwich Victoria. Finishing his playing career at Bradford club Albion Sports, he became manager of Eccleshill United, having 2 terms in charge.

He has since left, and that club have relocated for the new season and become Keighley Town. Neither he nor Kevin were among the scorers as England won 2-0.

Off the field, in National South ASHLEY HEMMINGS has been released by Dagenham and Redbridge. He's 35 now, so wherever he ends up it will probably be short term.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The 25-year-old worked closely with the Aggborough boss at Torquay United...

Callum featured for Altrincham and Oldham earlier in his career but found particularly impressive form in non-league for Warrington Rylands, a bag full of goals helping to secure his move to Fleetwood Town for an undisclosed fee.

Loan spells with Oldham and Altrincham followed before a permanent switch to Torquay...

'He’s a player I trust,' Wotton said... 'He can play in three positions, in midfield, as a ten and he can play wide. He wants to win and will put his foot in, but he’s got ability as well. He’s somebody I think an awful lot of, and I’m thrilled to get him through the door.'”

Harriers also have a video interview with Dolan.

And another ex-Alty loanee has landed an off-field post at Boston United who "have appointed LUKE WATERFALL as the club's new assistant manager.

Waterfall arrives following Chris Doig's departure to Northampton Town – and takes his first steps into a senior management role following a stellar playing career.

The 35-year-old has played for a variety of clubs – appearing over 100 times apiece for Gainsborough Trinity, Lincoln City and Grimsby Town.

He captained Lincoln to the National League title in 2017 and helped Grimsby win the National League play-offs in 2022 – the latter under the management of [current Boston manager] Paul Hurst.

The holder of the UEFA 'A' Licence, Waterfall will officially link up with the Pilgrims ahead of their return to pre-season training at the end of June.

The club would like to thank Worksop Town for their co-operation in facilitating the new appointment – with Waterfall cancelling his playing contract at Sandy Lane to begin a new chapter at the Jakemans Community Stadium."

Though in no way implicated in Southampton's reported spying on their opponents, their local neighbours Eastleigh have been cited as one of the locations where the Saints' espionage took place.

Dale Johnson, Football issues correspondent and Dan Roan, Sports editor report on the BBC website that "Southampton met Ipswich in the penultimate game of the season, with both teams going for second place.

In preparation, Ipswich trained at Eastleigh Football Club.

One of the first-team coaches told another analyst that Eckert said at an earlier match preparation meeting that 'someone should go to Eastleigh to look at Ipswich'.

The assistant coach approached the junior analyst intern about travelling to Eastleigh "as the boss is adamant that someone needs to go".

The junior analyst intern felt uncomfortable doing this and said "no" to the suggestion.

Another analyst said in his evidence that he grouped himself with the younger members of the analysis team who were being pressurised into carrying out the spying, and he felt pressurised himself.

This other analyst asked to be provided with an Eastleigh kit and a legend - an explanation of his supposed role at the National League club - and made the trip to observe the training sessions.

Someone present at Eastleigh that day video-recorded the whole session and it was sent to Southampton. From that footage, Southampton were able to predict the exact Ipswich team for the fixture".

AFC Fylde "announce that ahead of this weekend’s National League Annual General Meeting, we have had several nominations for the respective awards ceremony.

Following an incredible year of success for our Men’s First Team, both Danny Ormerod and Luca Thomas have been nominated for player awards within the National League North, whilst Head Coach CRAIG MAHON is in the running for the Manager of the Year... after leading Fylde to an immediate return to the fifth tier in his first full year in management".

Carlisle United "confirm that Josh Lucas will join the club as part of Rob Elliot’s first team backroom staff.

Josh arrives from Gateshead, where he worked closely with Rob as Head of Analysis and Recruitment...

During his time at Gateshead, Josh played an important role behind-the-scenes, supporting the club’s work across analysis, match preparation and recruitment...

Head Coach, Rob Elliot said 'Josh is someone I know well and trust. He has a strong understanding of how we want to work, both on the training pitch and in the way we prepare for matches and assess players'...

Sporting Director, MARC TIERNEY added... 'He brings experience, a strong working relationship with Rob, and a clear understanding of the level. His work will support the coaching staff and the players as we look to build on the progress made last season'...

First Team Analyst Glenn Boden, who joined the club in 2024, will depart".

Sutton United "announce that 2025/26 Player of the Season Jake Taylor has signed a new contract with the club, keeping him at Gander Green Lane until the end of the 2027/28 season.

In addition to his contract extension, Taylor has been appointed as club captain, a testament to his leadership, professionalism, and the immense impact he has made since arriving at Sutton United.

Taylor played a pivotal role in the club’s fortunes last season, helping to transform the team’s prospects after joining when the U’s were at the foot of the table. His performances earned him the admiration of supporters and teammates alike, culminating in his well-deserved Player of the Season award...

Jake Taylor said 'I’ve really enjoyed my time at the club so far and have loved being part of what we are building... I’m incredibly proud to captain this football club'...

Manager Chris Agutter said 'When Jake Taylor joined the football club, Sutton United were bottom of the table staring relegation in the face – his impact since joining us has been massive. He has all the traits we want to see in a Sutton United player. A reflection of his team-first mentality is that he played the last eight weeks of last season injured, but due to circumstances we needed him to do a job, and he did so without batting an eyelid. He is a proper player and a proper man'".

A "Club Update" has been issued by Tamworth regarding "the current progress of its official take over.

Many of you have noticed that the club’s social media channels have been quieter than usual. While we understand that this has caused some frustration, there are reasons behind this.

As supporters are aware, Tamworth Football Club has been progressing through a club takeover during the last few months. This has involved significant amounts of work behind the scenes with many important details being handled to ensure the best possible future for the football club.

As we approach the final stages of this extensive process and await official confirmation from the governing bodies of the completion, we are now getting closer to be able to share further information with supporters on player announcements, pre-season friendlies, season ticket information, commercial announcements and much more as preparations continue for the 2026/27 season."

At Worthing manager "Adam Hinshelwood has been shortlisted for the Enterprise National League South Manager of the Season award, while Wiktor Makowski and Brad Dolaghan are in the running for the Enterprise National League South Player of the Season & Young Player of the Season accolades...

Arriving in October and inheriting a Rebels outfit that was languishing in 15th position after 10 games played, Hinshelwood’s third spell in charge has seen the 42-year-old galvanise the group, culminating in an unprecedented achievement.

By the end of 2025, a drastic upturn in form yielded an astounding 12 victories from 13 matches in the league...

Academy product Brad Dolaghan’s return to Woodside Road proved to be a romantic one, as the once hotly-tipped prospect turned into a local hero by firing his club to the league title. 23 goals in 40 appearances resulted in the 21-year-old deservedly claiming the Golden Boot award...

While the majority of Makowski’s abundance of goals and assists were recorded in a Slough shirt, 13 goals and nine assists to be specific, the Polish forward crucially contributed in the final quarter of the 2025/26 term for the Rebels of West Sussex...

With both Makowski and Dolaghan under the age of 23, alongside representing half of the four-player shortlist for the Player of the Season award, they are also both leading candidates for the Young Player of Season prize".#

2 June 2026

ALTY STRENGTHEN OFF THE PITCH

In a move that underlines the club's continued investment in player performance, availability and long term development, Kyle has been recruited as Head of Physical Performance and is already making his presence felt.

June 1st is his official starting date, but he has already begun working behind the scenes on individually tailored fitness programmes aimed at ensuring each player is physically prepared for the demands of a National League campaign.

Neil benefitted from Kyle's expertise at Connah's Quay, where they won the Welsh FA Cup in 2018, reached the final the following year and embarked on a trailblazing Europa Conference League campaign...

[Said Neil Gibson], 'I'm thrilled to have Kyle on board... We all know the damaging effect injuries can have on the rhythm and momentum of a season. Such are the demands of the modern game that the risks are greater than ever, so it's impossible to overstate the importance of this appointment.

'Having worked alongside Kyle, I've seen for myself how good he is at devising plans that will give individual players the best chance of coping with everything a long, hard season can throw at them. He has a level of experience and professionalism that can only stand us in good stead as we prepare for another season'...

Kyle's reputation as a leading exponent of modern techniques for maximising performance levels has been honed during spells with the likes of Tranmere Rovers and Swindon Town as well as three years at Anfield as an influential figure within the renowned Liverpool Academy. He places a strong emphasis on physical development, fatigue management, and return-to-performance, while integrating evidence-based practice into the realities of modern football...

'My aim is to create an environment that supports the individual needs of each player, helping develop robust athletes who can consistently perform at the intensity required by the manager's playing style, while building strong relationships with both players and staff'" stated Kyle.

ALTY DIRECTOR RESIGNS

He had been on the Board since mid-July 2025 when Altrincham FC announced a "Board Restructure and New Appointments... that have been in planning for some time".

Those "new apppointments" included Gary Corbett who it described as "a long-time colleague of recent investors Simon and Michelle Orange, and he resumes a familiar role at Altrincham, having previously served as a director between 1991 and 1994".

Simon and Michelle Orange are co-owners of Sale Sharks rugby club. Back on 1 May 2025, Altrincham Today reported that "Altrincham Football Club has secured a significant new round of equity investment worth £1.45m as the club continues its pursuit of promotion to the Football League...

The lead investors in this latest funding round are Simon and Michelle Orange, who are already well-established on the North West sporting landscape as the majority owners of Sale Sharks Rugby Club".

Corbett's departure means that, over the past two years, ten directors have left the Board of the Football Club.

• 1 June 2026: Termination of appointment of Gary John Corbett as a director on 27 May 2026
• May 2026: Appointment of Andy Duff as CEO
• 18 March 2026: Termination of appointment of appointment of Alberto Anontio Valdes as a dircetor
• 12 August 2025: Termination of appointment of William James Waterson as co-Chairman
• 23 July 2025: Re-appointment of Mark Luby to the Board, having previously served as a director from November 2022 to January 2025
• 23 July 2025: Re-appointment of Gary John Corbett as a director
• 4 Jun 2025: Termination of appointment of Lawrence Looney as a director on 15 May 2025
• 26 May 2025: Termination of appointment of Scott Anthony Burton as a director on 15 May 2025
• 27 Jan 2025: Termination of appointment of Mark Peter Luby as a director on 21 January 2025
• 27 Jan 2025: Termination of appointment of Neil Peter Faulkner as a director on 13 January 2025
• 27 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Robert Christian Esteva as a director on 19 June 2024
• 01 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Andrew Mark Chapman as a director on 24 May 2024
• 01 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Christopher James Parry as a director on 24 May 2024

Therefore, the current Board comprises:

• Mark Luby (Executive Chairman) (re-appointed to Board 23 July 2025, having previously served on the Board from November 2022 to January 2025)
• John Coyne (Director of Football Operations) (appointed to Board 24/1/20)
• Sam Mackenzie (appointed to Board as a director 15/5/21)
• Andy Duff (CEO) (appointed May 2026)

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Under contract: Levi Amantchi, Josh Anifowose, Ash Boatswain, Callum Bone, Sam Bowen, Billy Chadwick, Pete Jameson, Will McGowan, Dom Telford, KEATON WARD

Options exercised until the end of 26/27 season: Adam Desbois, David Ferguson, Brad Nicholson

Options exercised until the end of 27/28 season: Fenton John

Terms offered: Harry Chapman, Josh Home, Tyrelle Newton, Kenton Richardson, Louis Storey, Ben Williams

In discussions: Jacob Butterfield, Joe Grayson, Preston Leech, Lucas Lowery

Not offered new terms: Max Melbourne, Certer Milmore, Connor Pani, George Shelvey, Oli Thompson"

Across the country on the west coast, Barrow "announce Alex Reid as the first arrival of the summer. The 30-year-old joins the Bluebirds with a wealth of experience across the National League.

Most recently he finished the 2025/26 season as Hartlepool's top goalscorer scoring 12 times in 40 appearances.

Reid has had spells with Stockport County, Oldham Athletic and Wealdstone and arrives at Barrow as the first signing for Adam Murray.

Speaking on the first addition to his squad, Murray said, "To go out there and get someone of Reidy's stature, he's a proven goalscorer at this level".

Off the field, Barrow confirm that a new official club website will launch from Monday 1st June 2026, ahead of the Club’s 125th anniversary season... with supporters set to see a fresh new digital look for Barrow AFC heading into the new campaign.

The new website has been designed to provide a cleaner, faster, and more modern experience for supporters, while simplifying several areas of the Club’s digital operations behind the scenes. While visually refreshed, supporters should expect no major changes to how they access tickets, retail, or club information online... There is no guaranteed set 'switch-over' time, it will be gradual from Monday onwards.

As part of the changes, all video content will move fully onto the Club’s official YouTube and social media channels. Due to broadcast and replay rights agreements, all match highlights and full match replay content will now sit with DAZN. The club can confirm that commentary of games which has previously been supplied by BBC Radio Cumbria will still be provided to the new video service via DAZN in the same way...

The previous website formed part of the EFL’s central digital systems. The move to a standalone platform gives the Club greater flexibility while also reducing operational costs. With video and streaming services now handled externally, there is no longer a need for the more complex video systems previously required."

Still in the northern sector of the National League, Carlisle United "spoke to Rob Elliot for the first time, after he was appointed as Carlisle United’s new Head Coach...

He said 'I wasn’t expecting something coming up so quickly with the Gateshead chapter finishing. When you have an opportunity like this, you can’t turn it down...

'As a coach you want to work with good players and there’s definitely some really good players here. When you put all that together, the size of the club, the community, the fan base and then the talent on the pitch, it just seems like the club's going in the right direction...

'We want to win games of football, but we want to do it in a way that’s aggressive and we want to play attacking football... I’m big on trying to be front-footed on the press and being aggressive both with and without the ball, that’s because as a goalkeeper, you’re always wanting the ball to come to you...

'We know that we want to get promoted, and we know we want to get out of the National Leagu... The big thing for me and the thing I look for is, how hard do the players work?'">

At Woking, The Cards "announce the signing of Zico Asare.

The 25-year-old defender joins on a two-year deal from Harrogate Town.

Asare began his football development at age 8 in the Fulham FC youth academy, spending over a decade with the club before departing.

He signed for Oxford City in 2021 and made 41 appearances. Asare signed for Maidenhead United in 2022 and made 86 appearances over his two-year spell at the club.

In July 2024, he joined League Two side Harrogate Town and made 34 appearances in his first season. In the 2025/26 season Asare made 16 appearances for the Sulphurites...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'We looked at Zico prior to bringing Aaron in last summer, but he wasn’t available – He’s comfortable both sides, and at 25yrs old he brings a great deal of EFL and NL experience, still has potential to improve, but already has many of the qualities we want from our full backs'".

Wealdstone report that "Enzio Boldewijn leaves Wealdstone Football Club with sincere thanks for his contribution across two memorable seasons... with the Dutchman having clocked up 100 appearances in the famous Royal Blue.

Long journeys for work and young families rarely mix well, thus the 33-year-old former Notts County star is set to sign for a club closer to his Cotswolds home [Bath City].

A truly versatile operator, Enzio has racked up a huge number of admirers drawn from right across the supporter base and club officials - all of whom will remember fondly his leadership, consistency and flexibility; an ability to play in many positions with fantastic ability, aptitude and courage.

'What a true professional on and off the pitch,' said Wealdstone chairman Rory Fitzgerald... 'He's a leader and a gentleman and an individual I personally value very highly'".

Hornchurch "announce the appointment of Mark Hammond as our new Chief Executive Officer...

Mark joins us from Bromley where he was instrumental in Bromley’s recent success as they reached the Football League for the first time in their history and have gone onto flourish...

Our chairman and owner Alex Sharp said 'I had been a long time admirer of Mark’s work at Bromley but when I met him in person I was first struck by his passion and obsession for football and I knew immediately he would be the person who could help fulfil my ambition of driving Hornchurch FC into the Football League, in a sustainable way by growing the club organically from the bottom up, with as much focus off the field as on it...

'His infectious personality, drive and ambition were what made the decision so easy for me to appoint him as our CEO'".

At the other promoted club from National South, Worthing, "Adam Hinshelwood has further bolstered his options in the middle of the park with the capture of energetic midfielder Tyrique Clarke.

The 24-year-old has joined fellow midfielder Noor Husin in joining the Reds this summer... following an impressive campaign with Slough Town.

Opting to swap from the Rebels of Berkshire to the Rebels of West Sussex, Clarke was an ubiquitous member of Slough’s squad under the stewardship of now Aldershot Town manager Scott Davies.

A Saint Vincent and the Grenadines international, the all-action midfielder missed only one league match last season... ‘T’ was also a key part of Slough’s magical Emirates FA Cup run [playing in the defeat of Altrincham!], as they reached the Second Round proper...

Starting out at Yeovil Town’s academy, our latest recruit has also represented Weymouth, Dorchester, Welling and Wingate & Finchley across his career...

'Tyrique is someone who plays with lots of energy in the middle of the pitch and is an excellent ball-carrier, two areas I thought we needed to bolster,' Hinsh stated".

1 June 2026

JAKE STAYS AT ALTY

The central defender will enter his sixth season with the Robins looking to build off a strong second half of 2025/26 and add to his 128 appearances for Alty since initially joining on loan from Rotherham United in 2022.

Jake Cooper said 'I'm really pleased to be continuing my career with Alty. It's a club I've thoroughly enjoyed playing for over the last four and a bit seasons.'...

Manager Neil Gibson said, 'Jake's a player who's done really well for us from the minute we walked through the door at Alty and I'm delighted he'll be part of the squad again for the new season. He's someone who is growing as a leader within the group'"

Footnote: Injury delayed Jake's first appearance last season but although Phil Parkinson then named him on the bench six times, he did not make his debut in 25/26 until Neil Gibson started him in the new manager's first match in charge on matchday 16 of the season. So all of his NL appearances came in the final 31 fixtures of the season, a spell in which he was a virtual ever-present.

NEIL'S NEW CHALLENGE

In both cases he joined a club which was already well into a league campaign and, therefore, he inherited a squad built by a previous manager. This time, as 26/27 approaches he has the luxury of building a squad of his own with only two of his predecessor's signings already contracted for the coming season; they are the wingers Lucas Weaver and Kahrel Reddin.

In Sunday's NL Paper Neil spoke to the paper's Matt Badcock. "I wasn't able to show too much of my 'Neil Gibson identity of a football team' at Wealdstone. It was more about being pragmatic... [it] was very dependent on us staying in the National League. I think it's the same at Altrincham... It [was] about how do we make sure Altrincham Football Club is safe as quickly as it can be...

"When you recruit in January, as much as the players we brought in definitely had an impact, especially Josh Grant, Declan Howe, Otis Khan and Liam Humbles, it's also not necessarily the right time to be recruiting too many

"This summer is one where we can sign players that fit our identity and see an Altrincham that plays in a way my teams have played previously".

The NLP summarises Gibson's idnetity as being "a team able to dominate possession with purpose, attacking and entertaining". Gibson added "My teams are always high energy, on the front foot, in your face and I need players who are athletes and able to get around the pitch to do that. So we need more legs".

"Towards the end of last season we saw the best of Isaac Marriott and Tom Crawford again and then we saw the cleverness of Otis Khan and Liam Humbles. That was a nice blend of good footballers".

Intriguingly the NLP reveals that its conversation with Gibson was taking place "while one new signing undergoes his medical". As yet that player's identity remains unpublicised.

THE SQUAD

So thirteen players are currently on the books.

That leaves nine of those who are out of contract whose futures have not yet been confirmed by the club, namely Joel Bailey, Sam Barnes, Olly Crankshaw, Owen German, Tylor Golden, Eddy Jones, Charlie Kirk, Isaac Marriott and Ethan Ross.

Above: The six players whose contracts, at the end of 2025/26 season, already extended into 2026/27 season, left to right we see Kian Breckin, Anthony Forde, Otis Khan, Charlie Olson, Kahrel Reddin and Lucas Weaver.

ALTY OLD BOYS

The NLP explains that "England retained the trophy last year in bizarre circumstances having actually lost the final on penalties to Australia... But the Aussies had knowingly played a suspended player... and the Three Lions were named the winners".

Much closer to home, Cheadle Town "announce the appointment of PAUL TURNBULL (above, right) as First Team Player/Manager of Cheadle Town Football Club.

Paul joins the club bringing a wealth of passion, ambition and valuable Non-League experience, having previously managed in the North West Counties Football League with Stockport Town FC. The former Stockport County player now takes charge as we begin an exciting new chapter, both on and off the pitch.

Joining Paul in the dugout will be Assistant Manager CHRIS ROWLEY and Sports Rehabilitator Oliver Brockbank, who will form part of the new management team".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

"As we prepare for our Centenary season, Aldershot Town FC we want to share thoughts on our mouth-watering home games against both Portsmouth and Oxford and a unique commemorative game against Farnborough!"

The games against Championship side Portsmouth (15th July) and League One Oxford United (21st July) feature games against higher league opposition at home as we tone up for the 26/27 season!"

Manager Scott Davies ecplained that "these two games will be vital to my young squad and an opportunity to really test themselves”.

The club added that "The Farnborough game (18th July) is a special game as it brings together the two teams to celebrate the military history and presence in the area. Named our Army Engagement fixture!

With a low-cost admission of just £1, we want to see as many of you as possible enjoy the whole day of engagement!...

'We are really looking forward to a new era at the EBB' said owner Deane Wood. 'I’m delighted that we have 3 really strong home games during July. We are celebrating 100 years of football at the Recreation Ground this year and have lots planned'".