Simon Bassey has stepped down from his role as Colchester United’s head of player recruitment to join Woking FC as assistant coach.
The move marks the end of a temporary stint with the U’s and a return to hands-on coaching for the experienced football figure.
Bassey’s Departure and Legacy at Colchester
Bassey, 48, joined Colchester United last summer to oversee player recruitment on a temporary basis. His contributions were pivotal during the summer transfer window, and he was actively involved in scouting ahead of the upcoming January window. Despite his short tenure, his impact on Colchester’s recruitment strategy has been widely praised.
Speaking about Bassey’s departure, Colchester manager Danny Cowley expressed gratitude for his efforts:
“Bass is a great guy and we’re going to really miss him. He was only ever meant to be temporary really but he has a world of experience and knowledge and knows these levels so well. We’re so thankful for the work that he’s done in the short space of time that he’s been here.”
Under Bassey’s guidance, Colchester United made significant strides in shaping their squad, despite not having a permanent head of recruitment since Ross Embleton’s departure to West Ham United earlier this year. His long-standing friendship with the Cowley brothers, forged during their non-league days, brought an added layer of trust and collaboration to the role.
Bassey’s New Role at Woking
Bassey now joins Woking FC as assistant coach, where he will reunite with Neal Ardley, with whom he previously worked at AFC Wimbledon. He made his debut in the dugout during Woking’s Boxing Day draw against Aldershot Town. His appointment has been welcomed by Woking’s director of football, Jody Brown, who stated:
“It’s important that the manager has the right people around him, so it’s great that we were able to get Simon. He brings a wealth of experience from a variety of roles – he’s another piece of the jigsaw now in place.”
Bassey’s move to Woking is seen as a natural fit, given his desire to return to the day-to-day intensity of football coaching. Cowley expressed his support, saying, “I’m so pleased for him. Woking will now be another team whose results I’ll look out for.”
Writer’s View
Simon Bassey’s move to Woking signifies a positive step for both parties. Colchester United will feel the void left by his departure, particularly given his influence in player recruitment. However, Woking have gained an assistant coach with a proven track record and a deep understanding of the game. For Bassey, the role offers a return to coaching alongside a familiar colleague, Neal Ardley, in a challenging and competitive environment.
