Welling United Part Company with Manager Lee Martin

Welling United have confirmed the departure of manager Lee Martin, with the club sitting in the Isthmian League Premier Division relegation zone after ten league games.

The 38-year-old, who was appointed in May and handed his first managerial role at Park View Road, has overseen just two league wins alongside eight defeats. A 2-1 loss to Hashtag United on Tuesday night proved the tipping point, with frustrated fans voicing their concerns online before the club acted to make a change.

A statement from Welling United read:

“Welling United can confirm that the club and manager Lee Martin have parted ways following a disappointing start to the season. We would like to place on record our gratitude to Lee for his efforts, professionalism and commitment during his time at Park View Road and we wish him every success in the future.”

The Wings, who were relegated from National League South last season, have endured a difficult transition into Isthmian League football. Martin managed only 13 games in total, his side collecting league victories against Chichester City and Canvey Island, alongside an FA Cup win at Uxbridge. However, a run of three consecutive defeats left the club near the foot of the table.

Assistant-turned-interim boss Paul Barnes, who has previously managed Dulwich Hamlet and Hastings United, will now take charge of first-team duties while the club begin their search for a long-term successor.

The board added:

“Lee has given his absolute all since joining us and we’re naturally disappointed to part ways. While we continue to work hard behind the scenes, it’s vitally important we stabilise matters on the pitch and start climbing the table. We thank supporters for their patience and look forward to better results, starting with Saturday’s FA Trophy tie at Royston Town.”

Barnes’ first task will be guiding Welling through that trip to Royston, a side also struggling near the foot of their own division.