Watling named Fleet boss

Ebbsfleet United have swiftly appointed Harry Watling as their new manager following the dismissal of Danny Searle. Searle was let go on Monday after securing just one point in the club’s first seven National League matches.

Watling, 34, comes to Ebbsfleet with experience from his recent role on the coaching staff at Scottish club Rangers and previous stints with QPR. His coaching background also includes time at the academies of Chelsea, Millwall, and West Ham, as well as serving as head coach for Hartford Athletic in the U.S.

Assisting Watling will be former Tottenham defender David Kerslake and ex-Charlton academy coach John Cotton. Watling’s first game at the helm will be a home match against Hartlepool this Saturday.

On his appointment, Watling expressed his excitement, stating: “I’m delighted to be here. Ebbsfleet has a brilliant set-up, and it was crucial to find a club where I can play football the way I want, on the front foot.”

Josh Wright, a player for Ebbsfleet, stepped in as caretaker manager on Tuesday, guiding the team to a goalless draw against Aldershot, Searle’s former club. Watling, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, was in attendance and is eager to begin his tenure.

“I’m looking forward to developing the team,” Watling said. “What I saw on Tuesday night was commitment, honesty, and work rate – qualities I expect as a baseline. David, John, and I are excited to get started in front of the Fleet fans against Hartlepool.”

Ebbsfleet’s chief executive, Damian Irvine, praised Watling’s appointment, emphasizing the club’s thorough hiring process. “We focus on bringing in the right characters who are dedicated and driven to succeed,” Irvine noted. “Harry fits that mold. With him, and the highly respected David Kerslake, we’re confident this new management team will hit the ground running and deliver the results we need.”