Eastleigh FC

Change in ownership Eastleigh FC are pleased to confirm details of the ownership changes due to outgoing chairman Stewart Donald’s purchase of Sunderland AFC. The club is now in possession of the relevant Football Association ownership and directors’ test approvals for Kenny Amor, Tom Coffey and Joanne Sprigg. We are, therefore, now able to confirm that an agreement has been made for the above trio and current chief executive officer Mark Jewell to purchase a controlling interest of the football club from Stewart Donald and his family. The new owners are due to be formally introduced to the National League’s executive board during the National Conference at the Celtic Manor on Saturday, June 9. However, they have immediately taken control of the day-to-day running of the club. We appreciate the fans’ patience during this transition period as we understand you have been eager for updates surrounding the future of the club. Further updates regarding club developments will...

Andy Hessenthaler has replaced Richard Hill as Eastleigh manager, with Hill moving to a full-time director of football role. Chief executive Mark Jewell commented: "Now seems to be a logical time to make the change. Richard brought ‘Hessy’ to the club at the start of the season. "He has a great track record, is well liked and has fitted in extremely well. It goes without saying that we have every confidence in him. "This will allow ‘Hilly’ to move full time into his role as director of football. There is a lot to do, both on and off the pitch, and I very much look forward to working with them both, in their new roles." Richard Hill: “I’ve been trying to do two roles, but I was manager and I’ll take the blame for what’s happened on the pitch. Although perhaps the biggest thing I should be blamed for is leaving the club in the first place. “But what happened in the two years after I left was not my fault and you can’t blame Stewart Donald either because all he...

Stewart Donald has revealed that Richard Hill will be the manager of Eastleigh next season with Andy Hessenthaler as his assistant manager. The Spitfires chairman said: “Richard did ever so well when he was here before and he left too early. “Since he went, I’ve made more funds available and Richard has always spent money well. “Hopefully with what’s available to him now, he’ll be able to deliver. “He seemed the logical choice. He’s a good tactician, he knows how to spot a player and he knows the league. “Last time he was here, he didn’t have enough of a team around him with experience and Andy Hessenthaler will bring that as his assistant. "Andy’s our sort of guy. “He’s hard-working, very knowledgeable at this level and above, he’s a good coach and very well respected. "He’s got connections with a lot of London-based players and we’re expecting to pick up a few players from those connections. “Richard and Andy will steady the ship and help us kick on now....