Former Luton Town and Norwich City defender Mickey Spillane has been confirmed as the new first-team manager at Cambridge City following his departure from Chelmsford City.
The 36-year-old takes charge as the Lilywhites look to push back up the non-league pyramid and continue their steady progress under new ownership.
Cambridge Appoint Spillane To Lead Ambitious New Era
Spillane joins from National League South side Chelmsford City, where he served as assistant manager and played a key role in the club’s record-breaking 2023/24 campaign that saw them finish as runners-up. His appointment follows a patient recruitment process by the Cambridge board, which described the decision as “carefully made” to align with the club’s long-term goals.
A former Republic of Ireland youth international, Spillane began his playing career at Norwich City and made history by becoming the youngest player to feature for the Canaries in the FA Cup. He went on to represent Brentford, Southend United, Cambridge United, and Lowestoft Town, but remains fondly remembered by Luton Town supporters after making 38 appearances and helping the Hatters win the Football League Trophy in 2009.
Move into coaching
After moving into coaching, Spillane became part of the Chelmsford backroom staff in 2020, later progressing to Head of Academy and assistant to Robbie Simpson. His reputation for organisation and player development has been widely praised across the non-league scene.
“I’m extremely excited to be joining Cambridge City Football Club,” Spillane said. “It’s a club with huge potential and an exciting project with a great fan base that myself and my staff are looking forward to getting started.”
Cambridge City chairman Kevin Satchell welcomed the appointment, revealing it took time to finalise terms but was worth the wait.
“It took a little while to negotiate the right deal for both Mickey and the club, but we’re absolutely delighted to have got it over the line. Mickey brings professionalism, experience, and ambition, and we believe he’s the right person to take the team forward.”
Next Steps For The Lilywhites
Spillane inherits a competitive squad assembled by interim bosses Shaun Sowden and Neil Midgley, who guided the team through the transition period. The pair will lead the side for the final time against Maldon & Tiptree before stepping aside.
Cambridge City’s statement expressed gratitude to both caretakers, commending their professionalism and commitment during the interim spell. Their stability has allowed the club to stay focused while preparations for the next chapter, including redevelopment work at the FWD-IP Community Stadium, continue apace.
A Cambridge native himself, Spillane’s appointment also represents a homecoming. Having attended school in the city and previously played for Cambridge United, his local connections add to the sense of optimism among supporters eager to see progress on and off the field.
Writer’s View
Mickey Spillane’s appointment looks an inspired move for Cambridge City. His coaching rise at Chelmsford combined with deep local roots makes him a natural fit for a club with ambition and tradition.
With a strong background in player development and a clear link to Cambridge’s footballing past, Spillane could be the figure to unite the club’s supporters and push the Lilywhites back toward the levels they aspire to reach.
