Former York City manager Neal Ardley has returned to the National League, taking charge at Woking FC.
The experienced coach replaces Michael Doyle as Woking looks to climb out of the relegation zone following a difficult start to the season.
Ardley’s Return to Management
Ardley, who was last seen managing York City in the 2023/24 season, has been out of the game for nearly ten months. At York, he steadied the ship during a challenging campaign but was let go in February 2024 with relegation still a looming threat. Now, he faces another uphill task as Woking sits 19th in the National League, just one point above the drop zone.
Woking has managed only one win in their last eight league matches, leaving the team in dire need of a turnaround. Ardley’s first match in charge will be at the Laithwaite Community Stadium this Saturday, where Woking hosts Altrincham.
Woking’s Vision for the Future
Woking’s Director of Football, Jody Brown, expressed confidence in Ardley’s ability to meet both immediate and long-term goals. Speaking on the appointment, Brown said:
“Neal has the values we want in our head coach. He brings a pragmatism to improve our current position, but also the principles and coaching philosophy to help us evolve into what we want to be in the future. His promotions and playoff achievements show he can take us to where we hope to be one day, and his experience with relegation battles is invaluable.”
Brown highlighted Ardley’s diverse career, which includes stints with AFC Wimbledon, Notts County, Solihull Moors, and Cardiff City’s academy. The club hopes Ardley’s blend of experience and flexibility will guide them to safety this season while laying the groundwork for long-term success.
Challenges Ahead
Ardley’s task begins immediately, with Woking facing Altrincham in a must-win clash. The team’s form has been a concern, and the new manager will need to rally his players to deliver results in the coming weeks. The reverse fixture against York City on February 8 promises to be a key moment, as Ardley returns to the LNER Community Stadium in what could be a pivotal match for both clubs.
Writer’s View
Neal Ardley’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for Woking. With his extensive experience in navigating relegation battles and achieving promotions, he appears well-suited to the role. However, the challenges are significant, and early results will be crucial to building momentum. If Ardley can implement his philosophy and instil confidence in his squad, Woking’s season could take a positive turn.
