Former Preston North End boss Frankie McAvoy is being considered for a coaching role at AFC Fylde as the National League side look to strengthen their management team.
McAvoy, who last managed Hearts as assistant coach, was dismissed in September 2024 following the sacking of Steven Naismith. His exit came after the Scottish side endured a torrid run of eight consecutive defeats.
The 56-year-old initially joined Hearts as Academy Director in February 2022 before transitioning into the first-team setup. He briefly assumed the head coach role while Naismith worked towards his UEFA Pro Licence.
Fylde Searching for Experience
Fylde are currently 20th in the National League and battling against relegation. The club parted ways with Kevin Phillips in February, appointing David Longwell as interim boss alongside goalkeeping coach Chris Neal. Now, the Coasters are looking to bring in further experience to their dugout, and McAvoy has emerged as a candidate.
Frank McAvoy began his coaching career in 2003 with Dunfermline Athletic as an academy coach. In 2005, he joined Hamilton Academical, later becoming academy director. In 2013, after Alex Neil’s appointment as manager, McAvoy became first-team coach. In 2015, both moved to Norwich City, then Preston North End in 2017.
McAvoy was named Preston’s full-time boss in May 2021 after a successful interim spell, winning five of his eight matches in charge. However, he lasted just 25 games into the 2021/22 season before being replaced by Ryan Lowe. He was dismissed in December despite the decent record. In February 2022, he became Hearts’ Academy Director, later head coach in June 2023. In September 2023, he became assistant after Steven Naismith was appointed head coach.
During his tenure, Preston recorded nine wins, nine draws, and seven defeats across all competitions. Following his departure, McAvoy took up a role at Hearts, where he remained until last year.
Writer’s View
McAvoy’s potential move to Fylde would see him return to English football for the first time since 2021. Given the club’s precarious position in the National League, experience will be crucial in the fight against relegation. While his managerial record at Preston was mixed, his coaching expertise could prove valuable. Fylde need stability, and McAvoy’s appointment could be a step towards achieving that.
