Woking

Founded in 1887, Woking Football Club, affectionately known as the Cards, boasts a rich history in English football.

The club has achieved notable successes, including three FA Trophy victories in the 1990s and a memorable FA Cup run to the fourth round in the 1990–91 season. Based at the Kingfield Stadium in Surrey, which accommodates over 6,000 supporters, Woking enjoys a dedicated and passionate fan base.

As of April 2025, the team competes in the National League, the fifth tier of English football, under the management of Neal Ardley. Keep reading to get more information from The Real EFL.

Woking Updates

As of April 7, 2025, Woking Football Club is navigating a challenging season in the National League, currently positioned 19th with 46 points from 40 matches. The team has secured 10 wins, 16 draws, and 14 losses, with a goal difference of -12.

The season has seen significant managerial changes; Michael Doyle was appointed in December 2023 and managed to retain the club’s league status. However, he was replaced by Neal Ardley in December 2024 following a series of poor results.

Player injuries have impacted the squad, notably the departure of midfielder James Kellermann in April 2024 after an injury-plagued season. Additionally, defender Dion Kelly-Evans received a red card in August 2024 for a tackle that resulted in an opponent’s leg break, affecting team dynamics.

Despite these challenges, the team’s morale remains resilient as they strive to improve their league standing in the remaining fixtures.

Woking Transfer News & Rumours

As of April 7, 2025, Woking Football Club has been active in the transfer market to bolster its squad for the ongoing National League season. Experienced striker Inih Effiong returned to the club in December 2024 from Braintree Town for a third spell with The Cards. Versatile 25-year-old midfielder Frank Vincent also joined in December on loan from Dagenham & Redbridge to add depth to the midfield options. 

Former Republic of Ireland international forward Aiden O’Brien signed a short-term deal in January 2025 bringing additional experience and firepower to the attack. A further addition to the forward line was Sam Ashford who returned to Woking on a permanent deal in March 2025, bringing with him seven league goals.

Players who have recently left the club include Cian Harries and Alan Judge. Centre-back Harries left in January to join promotion hopefuls Forest Green Rovers with former Ireland international Judge heading to Braintree Town. As of now, there are no credible reports detailing specific players linked to Woking FC. The club’s recent focus has been on integrating new signings and loans to address immediate squad needs.

The influx of experienced players like Effiong, O’Brien, and Morias is anticipated to enhance Woking’s attacking prowess. Manager Neal Ardley has expressed confidence in these additions, stating, “We believe these signings will provide the necessary impetus to climb the league table.”

Woking’s strategic approach mirrors that of other National League clubs, emphasizing experienced signings and loan deals to strengthen squads mid-season. This trend highlights a competitive market where clubs aim to balance immediate performance improvements with financial prudence.

Woking Signings

Woking has bolstered their squad with new signings throughout the season, including Effiong, Vincent and O’Brien but also at the start of the campaign with additions such as midfielder Jamie Andrews and goalkeeper Oliver Webber, who joined from West Bromwich Albion and Glentoran respectively.

Player	Age	Nationality	Left	Fee	Contract Duration
Jamie Andrews	21	English	West Bromwich Albion U21 Premier League 2	Free	1 Year
Aiden O'Brien	31	Ireland	Shelbourne Premier Division	Free	End Of Season
Deon Moore	25	Guyana	Sutton United National League	Free	N/A
Oliver Webber	24	Northern Ireland	Glentoran Premiership	Free	1 Year
Inih Effiong	33	England	Braintree Town National League	Free	2 Years
Harry Beautyman	32	England	Sutton United National League	Free	1 Year
Dale Gorman	28	Northern Ireland	Barnet  National League	Free	1 Year
Cian Harries	27	Wales	Aldershot Town National League	Free	18 Months
Jacob Jones	22	Wales	Cove Rangers League One	Free	1 Year
Ben Wynter	26	England	Barnet National League	Free	1 Year
Tariq Hinds	24	England	Braintree Town National League	Free	End Of Season
Matt Ward	21	England	Ipswich Town U21 England	Free	1 Year
Sam Ashford	29	England	Wealdstone  National League	Free	18 Months
Timi Odusina	24	England	Bradford City League Two	Free	2 Years
Joshua Osude	25	England	Hashtag United England	Free	18 Months
Jack Stretton	23	Scotland	Stockport County League One	Loan	2 Months
Junior Morias	29	England	Notts County League Two	Loan	2 Months
Adam Chicksen	33	Zimbabwe	Notts County League Two	Loan	End Of Season
Max Dyche	21	England	Northampton Town League One	Loan	6 Months
Frank Vincent	25	England	Dagenham & Redbridge National League	Loan	End Of Season
Raheem Conte	21	England	Cardiff City Championship	Loan	6 Months
Chinwike Okoli	21	England	Millwall U21 England	Loan	End Of Season
Sha'mar Lawson	21	England	Millwall U21 England	Loan	End Of Season
Tom Leahy	20	England	Millwall U21 England	Loan	4 Months
Jokubas Mazionis	18	Lithuania	Ipswich Town U21 England	Loan	End Of Season
Alan Judge	35	Ireland	Without Club	Free	6 Months
Charlie Sayers	20	England	Without Club	Free	End Of Season

Woking Key Matches Of The Season

Due to Woking’s position just three points above the National League relegation zone, as of April 7th 2025, the club’s remaining matches hold great importance for their survival hopes. Surrey rivals Aldershot Town and the fixture against fellow relegation battlers Maidenhead United and AFC Fylde could hold the key to maintaining National League status next season.

A crucial victory against fifth-bottom Dagenham & Redbridge in February and a recent point away at Boston United have helped to keep the Cards above the drop zone.

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Woking Key Achievements

Woking Football Club, founded in 1887, rose to prominence primarily through its success in non-league football and memorable FA Cup runs. The club’s early years were spent in local competitions, but it began gaining national recognition in the 1990s—a golden era under manager Geoff Chapple.

• FA Trophy Dominance (1994 – 1997)

Woking enjoyed extraordinary success in the FA Trophy, winning the prestigious non-league competition three times in four years (1994, 1995, 1997). These triumphs solidified the club’s reputation in English non-league circles.

• Historic FA Cup Run (1990 – 1991)

Perhaps the most iconic moment in Woking’s history came in January 1991, when they shocked West Bromwich Albion 4–2 at The Hawthorns in the FA Cup Third Round. Striker Tim Buzaglo scored a hat-trick in one of the competition’s most memorable upsets. Woking eventually reached the Fourth Round, where they narrowly lost to Everton.

• Conference Success

The club spent a long stint in the Football Conference (now National League), consistently finishing near the top in the mid-1990s, with their highest finish being 2nd in the 1994–95 season.

• Return to National League

After relegation in 2009, Woking bounced back in 2012 by winning the Conference South title under Garry Hill. They achieved further promotion from the National League South in 2019 under Alan Dowson.

Woking’s legacy is one of resilience, cup glory, and passionate community support—factors that continue to define the club’s identity.

• Isthmian League Division Two Champions 1986-87
• Isthmian League/National League South Champions 1991-92, 2011-12
• FA Trophy Winners 1993-95, 1994-95, 1995/96
• Conference League Cup Winners 2004-05
• Isthmian League Cup Winners 1990-91
• FA Amateur Cup Winners 1957-58

Woking Current Squad

The 2024–25 Woking Football Club squad combines experienced players and emerging talents across all positions.

Key figures include goalkeepers Will Jääskeläinen and Oliver Webber; defenders such as Timi Odusina and Tunji Akinola; midfielders Harry Beautyman and Rohan Ince; and forwards Inih Effiong and Dennon Lewis.

Woking Attackers

The experienced Inih Effiong leads the Woking attack and has contributed seven goals since arriving from Braintree Town in December.

Woking’s forwards have struggled for goals this season with Lewis Walker scoring just twice and Aiden O’Brien finding the net once in the short time he has been with the Cards.

Woking Midfielders

Harry Beautyman leads the scoring charts with ten goals so far from his 31 National League matches. The 33-year-old is enjoying one of his best goal-scoring seasons with 14 in all competitions.

Olatunji Akinola has chipped in with two goals this season and has been booked seven times, highlighting his combative nature.

Matt Ward has had something of a breakthrough season this term with six goals in 39 games in all competitions, the best return in his fledgling career.

Woking Defenders

Experienced defender Adam Chicksen is currently on loan from League Two outfit Notts County and has made 24 National League appearances so far.

Former Coventry City man Dion Kelly-Evans has been a mainstay at wingback and on loan Millwall central back Chinwike Okoli has gained valuable experience with Woking this season.

Woking Goalkeepers

Will Jääskeläinen has been Woking’s undisputed number one this season, starting 36 of 40 National League fixtures. The Finn has kept seven clean sheets so far this season and is approaching 100 appearances for The Cards.

Jääskeläinen is supported by Oliver Webber, who is in his first season with Woking having crossed the Irish Sea coming from Glentoran.

Woking Manager & Coaching Staff

As of April 2025, Woking Football Club’s first-team manager is Neal Ardley, appointed in December 2024. His coaching staff includes assistant manager Simon Bassey, goalkeeping coach John Keeley, and first-team coach Craig Mackail-Smith.

Neal Ardley – Manager

Ardley enjoyed a playing career that included over 300 appearances for Wimbledon before moving into coaching. From 2012-2018 he was in charge of his former club and led them to promotion to League One in 2016.

He has twice led sides to the National League playoff finals, in 2020 with Notts County and with Solihull Moors in 2022. He was appointed manager at Woking in December 2024 and is known for a fast-paced style of play and a strong player development focus.

Simon Bassey – Assistant Manager

Bassey began his football journey with Wimbledon’s youth system, later playing for clubs like Carshalton Athletic and AFC Wimbledon before transitioning to coaching after an injury.

He spent 17 years at AFC Wimbledon, contributing to their rise from non-league to League One, including two caretaker manager stints. Bassey held coaching roles at Barnet and Portsmouth, serving briefly as interim head coach at both clubs.

In May 2024, he became head of recruitment at Colchester United before joining Woking FC as assistant head coach in December 2024. His coaching philosophy emphasizes leadership and adaptability, valuing both coaching and managerial responsibilities.

John Keeley – Goalkeeper Coach

During his playing career, Keeley represented clubs such as Stockport County and Brighton & Hove Albion before an extensive coaching career began.

He worked his way from academy coach to goalkeeper coach at Portsmouth. Has worked at Blackburn Rovers, Brighton and even spent time with Chinese side Guangzhou R&F before a second spell with Pompey.

Keeley joined The Cards for the start of the current season.

Craig Mackail-Smith – First Team Coach

Mackail-Smith began his career at St Albans City before notable stints at Dagenham & Redbridge, Peterborough United—where he scored 99 goals in 231 appearances—and Brighton & Hove Albion.

Internationally, he earned seven caps for Scotland, scoring once.

After retiring in January 2023, Mackail-Smith transitioned into coaching, joining Woking Football Club as Head of Performance in December 2024. His coaching philosophy emphasizes maximizing player fitness and mentoring forwards, leveraging his extensive playing experience to enhance team performance.

Woking Former Managers & Key Coaches

Woking has had some notable managers over their history including Geoff Chapple. Chapple managed Woking from 1984 to 1997, leading them to three FA Trophy victories (1994, 1995, 1997) and notable FA Cup runs, including a win over West Bromwich Albion in 1991.  

Another manager who brought success to the club is Alan Dowson who was appointed in 2018 and secured promotion to the National League in his first season. He would also guide Woking to the FA Cup third round against Watford.

Alan Dowson (2018-22) – In his first season, Dowson led the team to promotion from the National League South via a play-off final victory over Welling United.

During the same campaign, Woking reached the FA Cup third round, hosting Premier League side Watford.

The following seasons saw mixed results, including a 10th-place finish in the National League and a semi-final appearance in the FA Trophy. Dowson was dismissed in February 2022 after a series of poor results.

Darren Sarll (2022-23) – Sarll led the team to a fourth-place finish in the National League during the 2022-23 season, securing a historic playoff berth.  

However, the following season saw a downturn in form, with Woking suffering eight defeats in ten games, leading to Sarll’s dismissal in November 2023.

Michael Doyle (2023-24) – Doyle was appointed manager of Woking Football Club in December 2023 succeeding Sarll.  

Doyle’s prior coaching roles included assistant positions at Notts County and Forest Green Rovers. During his tenure at Woking, he guided the team to a 17th-place finish, narrowly avoiding relegation. However, after a challenging start to the following season, with the team positioned 19th in the National League, Doyle was dismissed.

Neal Ardley (2024-) – At the time of his appointment, Woking was positioned 19th in the National League, having secured only five league victories that season.  

Ardley brought extensive managerial experience, including leading AFC Wimbledon to League One promotion in 2016 and guiding both Notts County and Solihull Moors to National League play-off finals. His initial focus at Woking was on improving the team’s league standing and implementing a long-term development strategy.

Woking Legends

Josh Casey (2018-24) 

He served as Woking Football Club’s captain from 2018 to 2024. He led the team to National League South promotion in 2019 and guided them to a third-place National League finish in 2023—the club’s best league performance in 25 years. In 2019, he was named Woking’s Sports Personality of the Year. Over six seasons, Casey made over 220 appearances for The Cards.

Joe McNerney (2009-15, 2021-23) 

Nicknamed the “Beast,” he made 203 league appearances and scored 11 goals during his first tenure at Woking Football Club from 2008 to 2015. He was instrumental in their 2011–12 Conference South title win. McNerney also earned an England C cap in 2014. After a successful spell at Crawley Town, he returned to Woking in 2021, adding 59 appearances and two goals over two seasons before departing in 2023.

Craig Ross (2018-23) 

He joined Woking Football Club in September 2018. Over five seasons, he made 198 appearances, primarily as a goalkeeper. In the 2019–20 season, Ross earned the Fans’, Players’, and Manager’s Player of the Season awards. He currently plays for National League rivals Maidenhead United.  

Scott Rendell (2013, 2014-16) 

Scott initially joined on loan from Luton Town, scoring 17 league goals that season. He signed permanently in January 2014, totalling 41 goals in 76 league appearances. In 2015, fans crowdfunded over £10,000 for his knee surgery after a ligament injury.

Max Kretzschmar (2016-17, 2018-22) 

Max Kretzschmar, an attacking midfielder, had two stints at Woking Football Club. Initially joining in July 2016, he scored crucial goals, including one that secured the club’s National League status in April 2017. Returning in July 2018, he was instrumental in Woking’s 2018–19 National League South promotion, netting 15 goals that season. Over his second tenure, Kretzschmar made 148 appearances and scored 40 goals before departing in June 2022.

Jake Hyde (2018-20)

Jake joined Woking Football Club in July 2018, contributing significantly to the team’s success over two seasons. In the 2018–19 National League South campaign, he scored 11 league goals, aiding Woking’s promotion. The following season, Hyde netted 16 league goals, becoming the club’s top scorer. His consistent performances earned him recognition as a pivotal player before his departure in August 2020.

Woking Team Metrics & Performance

In the 2023–24 National League season, Woking Football Club finished 17th, recording 15 wins, 10 draws, and 21 losses, with 49 goals scored and 55 conceded. They achieved 13 clean sheets. Top scorers included Ricky Korboa and Reece Grego-Cox, each netting seven goals.

The 2024-25 season is the club’s sixth successive campaign in the National League having gained promotion from the National League South in 2019.  

Woking still find themselves, as of April 7th 2025, in a battle to remain in England’s fifth tier and would have hoped for a more respectable mid-table finish.

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Woking Pitch & Amenities

Woking Football Club’s home ground, the Laithwaite Community Stadium—historically known as Kingfield Stadium—has been central to the club since 1922. Located in Woking, Surrey, it accommodates approximately 6,036 spectators, including 2,500 seated.

The stadium features the prominent Leslie Gosden Stand, an all-seater structure built in 1995, and the covered Kingfield Road End terrace. Additional areas include the Chris Lane Terrace and the family stand.

Beyond hosting Woking F.C. matches, the stadium has welcomed various events, such as England women’s U17 games and FA Women’s Cup semi-finals, underscoring its significance as a community hub.

Woking Fan Base & Support

Woking Football Club, affectionately known as ‘The Cards’ or ‘The Cardinals ‘boasts a dedicated and passionate fan base.

The Cards Trust is one of the main supporter groups for Woking fans after merging with Woking Supporters’ Club in 2011.

The Trust represent supporters and ensures their voices are heard when decisions regarding the club are made and provides a range of benefits for Trust members and Woking supporters.

Woking Rivalries & Notable Matches

Woking Football Club’s primary rivalry is with Aldershot Town, a contest known as the ‘Surrey Derby’. Historically, Aldershot has held the advantage, with 17 wins to Woking’s 9, and 7 draws. In their most recent encounter on December 26, 2024, the teams drew 2-2 at Aldershot’s EBB Stadium.  

The return fixture took place on January 1, 2024, at Woking’s Laithwaite Community Stadium, where Aldershot secured a 3-2 victory. One of the key meetings between the sides in recent history came on Easter Monday in 2014 as the Conference Premier season was coming to a close.

The match ended 2-1 to Aldershot Town thanks to goals from Brett Williams and Mark Molesley with Brett Johnson replying for Woking. Aldershot’s victory put an end to any hopes Woking had of a playoff place and led to them staying in the division on goal difference.

Woking Facts

Woking History

Founded in 1887, Woking Football Club, known as ‘The Cards’, has been a cornerstone of Surrey’s football community for over 120 years.

The club’s early years were marked by financial challenges, notably in 1908 when a spirited FA Cup match against Bolton Wanderers garnered national attention and vital support.

Joining the Isthmian League in 1911, Woking achieved significant success, including winning the FA Amateur Cup in 1958 before a crowd of 71,000.

The 1990s heralded a golden era under manager Geoff Chapple, with Woking securing three FA Trophy victories and achieving consecutive second-place finishes in the Conference National.

Memorable FA Cup runs during this period included a notable 4–2 victory over West Bromwich Albion in 1991.

Rivalries, particularly the ‘Surrey Derby’ against Aldershot Town, have intensified fan engagement and local pride. The club’s commitment to the community is evident through initiatives like ‘Cardinals in the Community’, fostering local involvement and support.

In recent years, Woking has experienced managerial changes and financial challenges. In November 2024, American businessman Todd Johnson acquired a majority stake, aiming to stabilize and advance the club. Subsequently, Neal Ardley was appointed manager in December 2024, bringing a vision for future success.

Throughout its history, Woking Football Club has exemplified resilience and community spirit, remaining a vital part of Surrey’s sporting landscape.

Woking Social Media Links

Stay up to date by following the Cards on X @Wokingfc and by visiting the club’s official website www.wokingfc.co.uk.

Woking Outlook & Forecast

Under manager Neal Ardley, Woking Football Club is focusing on strengthening its squad and improving performance in the National League. The recent acquisition of striker Sam Ashford from Wealdstone on March 24, 2025, aims to enhance the team’s attacking options.  

Additionally, the loan signing of Junior Morias from Notts County in February 2025 has already yielded positive results, with Morias scoring twice against his former club, Dagenham & Redbridge. These strategic moves reflect Ardley’s commitment to bolstering the squad’s offensive capabilities.

In a recent interview on April 7, 2025, Ardley discussed the team’s performance and areas for improvement following a defeat to Aldershot Town.  

The club’s strategic focus remains on achieving a stable mid-table position this season, with an emphasis on building a cohesive unit capable of competing for promotion in subsequent campaigns.

While specific transfer targets for the upcoming window have not been publicly disclosed, the management is expected to continue seeking players who align with the club’s long-term vision.

Overall, Woking FC’s prospects hinge on integrating recent signings effectively and addressing tactical shortcomings identified by the coaching staff. The club’s proactive approach in the transfer market and strategic planning under Ardley’s leadership aim to set a foundation for future success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Woking

How much would it cost to buy Woking Football Club?

In July 2024, Woking Football Club owner Drew Volpe expressed willingness to sell the club for £1 due to financial challenges. This nominal price reflected the club’s debts and the need for substantial investment.

Subsequently, in November 2024, American businessman Todd Johnson, leading the Cardinal Football Group, signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in the club.  

The acquisition was completed by February 2025. Currently, the club is not publicly listed for sale, and any future sale price would depend on its financial health, league status, and ongoing investments.

Why are Woking called The Cards?

Woking Football Club is known as ‘The Cards’ due to the club’s association with the town’s playing card industry. Woking has a historical connection to card manufacturers, and the nickname ‘The Cards’ was adopted as a nod to this local heritage.

What is the capacity of Woking’s Laithwaite Community Stadium?

The Laithwaite Community Stadium can hold approximately 6,036 spectators, including 2,500 seated.

Who owns Woking Football Club?

As of April 2025, Woking Football Club is owned by Todd Johnson, who serves as chairman. In November 2024, Johnson’s company, Cardinal Football Group LLC, acquired a majority stake in the club, completing the purchase in February 2025.  

Prior to this, Drew Volpe owned the club but agreed to sell due to financial challenges. Johnson, a Minnesota-based businessman and partner at Minnesota United FC, has since taken over the club’s leadership.

Is Woking a big club?

While Woking Football Club may not be considered a ‘big’ club in terms of historical trophies or current league standing, it holds a cherished place in its community, offering competitive football and contributing positively to local culture and identity.

Where can I watch Woking Football Club?

To watch Woking Football Club’s matches, you have several options:

Live Streaming:

• DAZN: DAZN offers live streaming of Woking FC matches in the UK. You can access these streams on their platform.

• Live Soccer TV: This platform provides schedules and live stream links for Woking FC’s matches, detailing which broadcasters are airing the games.

Television Broadcasts:

In the UK, broadcasters such as Sky Sports, BT Sport, and ESPN UK may feature Woking FC matches, especially during significant fixtures. It’s advisable to check their schedules for upcoming games.

Official Club Channels:

Woking FC’s official YouTube channel offers match highlights and interviews.