Kingstonian FC

Kingstonian Football Club is delighted to announce that Hayden Bird has been appointed to the role of First Team Manager.

Hayden, who has also had success as manager of Croydon Athletic, Carshalton Athletic and Bromley, joined the Moatsiders in January 2012 and subsequently took the team to unprecedented success, including the FA Cup First Round in 2016 (when they played Oxford United in front of the live BT Sport cameras), four consecutive Surrey Senior Cup Finals between 2015 and 2018 (winning in 2016 and 2018), promotion from Division One South in 2015 via the play-offs and in the season just finished, he took his team to the Premier Division Play-Off Final.

The club is also very pleased to announce that Hayden’s long-time lieutenant, Tutu Henriques, will be accompanying him to Kingstonian as assistant manager.

The new man said: “I am delighted to been appointed the Manager of Kingstonian Football Club. Such is the history of the club, Kingstonian remains one of the biggest clubs in Non-League football. It's a privilege to have been appointed as your Manager.

As everyone knows, I had great times at Merstham. In the last four years, we reached six cup finals, won the Surrey Senior Cup twice, reached the FA Cup 1st Round versus Oxford United and reached the Bostik Premier League Play-Off Final, a few weeks ago. Having also enjoyed success at both Carshalton Athletic and Bromley, I would like to think I have the experience required to bring success to Kingstonian.

I know the second half of the season was a difficult period for the Club. However, I have no doubt that if we all pull together, we can restore Kingstonian's pride and bring success to the pitch. I'm sure last season was painful for everyone involved and most of all the supporters. However, we can now start afresh and look forward with optimism.

One reason I accepted the job is not only the potential here but the tremendous fan base. With this in mind: 

I would like to build a good relationship with the supporters. For example, I would like to involve you with a good line of communication to help us pull together and realise our ambitions, as a football club. You all have a major part to play!

Therefore, I would like to invite everyone to meet me, the new staff and the new signings at a Meet the Manager Event before the start of the new season. It will be a good opportunity for us to get to know one another and introduce the new squad to our fans.              

Kingstonian presents a huge challenge. There are going to be considerable changes in the Summer with myself and my No.2 Tutu Henriques making big decisions. Patience and time will be needed. We know there is no quick fix in football, particularly when a club is in a period of transition. However, I guarantee you all the team will show the passion, desire and commitment you all deserve. Kingstonian will have a team the supporters can relate to and be proud of. Together with a style of football that you will all love!

I look forward to meeting you all at the upcoming Meeting the Manager Event.”