Ardley opens a new career chapter as he tries to revitalise Walton

Neal Ardley may have taken two clubs to a National League Promotion Final, but he’s at Walton & Hersham to help the team - not to pick it.

The former Notts County and Solihull Moors manager has been name as the Enterprise National League South club’s new Director of Football.

The struggling Swans says his appointment “represents a significant addition to the club’s footballing structure” - but despite the club still not replacing Kevin James after parting ways three weeks ago, Ardley won’t be returning to management.

Ardley, who guided AFC Wimbledon to League One at Wembley a decade ago, wants to help the Surrey side develop its footballing operations and strengthen its foundations for the future.

That, it seems, doesn’t include a stint in the dug-out - he graduated last week after studying for a Global Football Directorship.

“It’s always something I wanted to get into, even when I was playing,” he said.

“I did a two year post gard diploma. I’m fully qualified now. I started looking at that side of the game while I was in management, because I feel I could add a lot. It was a natural progression for me.

“I won’t be picking the new manager, the owners may lean on me for advice but it’s been a difficult start and Rome wasn’t built in a day.

“The phone did ring, I did speak to one or two clubs out management, but I feel I have a lot to still offer in this type of role.”

He added in an interview with the BBC: “I’ve really enjoyed sitting down with the owners and hearing just how honest they’ve been about where the club is at, and the challenges that lie ahead.

“That honesty is a big part of what’s drawn me to this role. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in, working closely with the management team and the players, and doing everything I can to help us face those challenges together.”