After Wednesday’s announcement, we caught up with new manager Leon Carling to find out his thoughts as he moved into his new role. Whilst shocked at Chris’ departure Leon said “he was excited and just wanted to get started and was ready for the challenge ahead. He continued by saying the ambitions for the team and then club remain the same and apart from a different voice at the top – it’s business as usual.” Leon had two spells at Heritage Park as a player and spent the last 3 years as Chris’ Assistant Manager, Leon certainly needs no introduction.
Leon brings with him Dave Onions as Assistant Manager. Dave had a very attractive playing career, playing 750 games and scoring over 250 goals. Dave has 6 years of experience as an Assistant Manager under his belt, having had spells at Guisborough, Billingham Synthonia, and Redcar Athletic. Dave said, “he is excited about working alongside Leon and feels very honoured to be working for a club the size and magnitude of Bishop Auckland.”
Jack Purdham continues his role he took up to support Chris, as team coach and will now support Leon and Dave on match days and in training.
Also joining Leon as Management Support is Leon’s good friend Dave Ryder. Dave will look after the admin side of the role allowing Leon and Dave to concentrate on the playing side.
We wish Leon, Dave, Jack and Dave well, as they build on the foundations already laid and move us into the club’s next chapter.