Notts County have confirmed the return of Richard Montague as the club’s director of football, just 7 months after his departure for Swansea City.
The 39-year-old replaces Roberto Gagliardi, who left Meadow Lane in September, and will take on an expanded remit as part of his second spell with the Magpies.
Montague Returns Home
Montague previously spent nearly 6 years with Notts County before leaving for Swansea in February, but his time in South Wales was short-lived, ending following a review of “football operations.” His return sees him reunite with owners Chris and Alex Reedtz, with whom he has worked closely for over a decade.
In a joint statement, the Reedtz brothers said Montague’s responsibilities will extend beyond his previous recruitment focus.
“While recruitment will once again be one of his key responsibilities, Richard will now be more involved in the day-to-day operations of the football department and will once again become a key figure of support to the coaching team,” they said.
“We’re delighted to welcome Richard back to Meadow Lane and we’re sure fans will join us in warmly welcoming him.”
The appointment marks another step in the club’s off-field stability drive, with Montague expected to work closely alongside head coach Martin Paterson and assistant Andy Edwards as Notts aim to push back into the League 2 play-off places.
“Fresh Ideas and Experiences”
Speaking after the announcement, Montague expressed his gratitude to be returning to a club where he enjoyed “5 and a half memorable years.”
“I’m incredibly excited and grateful to be back at Notts – a club close to my heart,” he said. “I arrive with fresh ideas, experiences and contacts from my time at Swansea, and even greater passion and respect for the way we operate at Meadow Lane.
“I look forward to meeting and building close relationships with Martin Paterson and Andy Edwards, as well as catching up with the many other fantastic people who work so hard to drive the club forward.”
Montague’s previous spell at the club coincided with Notts County’s modernisation under the Reedtz ownership, including an analytics-driven approach to recruitment and long-term squad planning that helped guide the Magpies back into the EFL.
Swansea Spell ends
Richard Montague’s 7-month spell as Swansea City’s director of football ended following an internal review of operations. He joined in February to oversee recruitment and worked closely with Luke Williams, who was soon dismissed.
Montague later led the process that confirmed Alan Sheehan as permanent head coach and helped steer a busy summer window with 12 arrivals. The club has opted not to replace him, with Adam Worth and Tom Gorringe assuming his responsibilities.
Writer’s View
Montague’s return represents both continuity and renewed momentum for Notts County. His familiarity with the club’s structure and strong relationship with ownership provide immediate stability, while his brief Premier League experience at Swansea may add a fresh dimension to his work.
With the Magpies currently sitting 10th in League Two and just a point outside the play-off positions, his reappointment arrives at a critical juncture. Supporters will hope his return can help sharpen recruitment and provide the strategic consistency required to sustain a promotion challenge through the second half of the season.
