Tonbridge Angels are delighted to announce the appointment of Craig Nelson as our new manager for next season.

Craig arrives at the Halcyon Wealth Longmead Stadium from Lewes Football Club, where he has been the manager since the start of this season having joined the Rooks from Glebe where he began his managerial journey. He secured playoffs in his first full season with the Chislehurst-based, Southern Counties East club.

Craig moved to Lewes, a community-owned, Isthmian Premier Division club, where he led the side through a transitional period and has gained a reputation for overseeing exciting, attacking football whilst building the foundations of the team and nurturing young talent.

Chair Sophie Purves commented: “We are delighted Craig Nelson and his team will be joining Tonbridge Angels in the close season. He’s an ambitious, talented manager with a determination to succeed. We went through an extensive interview process and felt Craig was the perfect fit for our club and our ethos. We’re excited about the team he will build for next season and the journey ahead.”

Craig added: “I'm incredibly proud to be joining Tonbridge Angels and stepping into the National League South. This is a fantastic club with real ambition, great sense of community and a passionate fanbase that I cannot wait to connect with.

“After an unforgettable journey with Lewes, I’m excited to start this new chapter and bring the same passion, intensity and belief in ensuring that the football we play represents the values of this proud club. Fans can expect a team that plays with identity, is structured, aggressive without the ball, and expressive in possession. 

“My focus will be on building a competitive, hardworking, united group that the supporters can connect with and be proud of, whilst providing a platform and environment to support the development of our youth. I’m looking forward to working with the players, staff, and everyone connected to the club as we move forward together.”

We thank Lewes Football Club for their understanding and cooperation and wish them the very best for the remainder of the season where Craig will remain at the helm.

Craig's first interview with Matt Davison can be viewed HERE