Stafford Rangers appoint Graham Deakin as permanent boss to lead “new era”

Stafford Rangers have appointed Graham Deakin as their permanent manager, signalling what the club has described as the beginning of a “new era”.

Deakin guided Rangers to safety in Northern One West with a game to spare, winning six and drawing four of his matches after taking charge as interim boss in January.

He has now officially taken the helm on a permanent basis, with the club preparing for a significant summer of change under new American investors and owners, Nathan Owen and George Bruneau.

Deakin expressed his delight at securing the role full-time, saying: “I am excited and privileged to be given the opportunity to manage this fantastic football club on a permanent basis. I’m humbled to be chosen to be the man to lead this club into a new and exciting era.

“I have learned a great deal over the past season and with that knowledge and the energy and support network now in place at the club above me and within my management team firmly believe that we can and will deliver the success that this football club deserves.

“I’d like to thank Nathan and the board for their backing and the continued support shown towards me.”

Deakin will continue to work alongside Alfie Marsden, Alex Meechan, Scott Cooksey and George Stephens.

In a statement, the club said it is now “entering a new era - one that both honours recent contributions and looks ahead with ambition and determination”.

It added that investment will be made in new analytical tools and an enhanced scouting process to support the management team as they aim to realise their vision of a return to step three in the non-league pyramid “and beyond”.

While Deakin remains in charge, director of football Andy Fearn has announced he will step down after eight years in the role.

He said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Stafford Rangers over the last eight years.

“Through difficult times both on and off the pitch I believe I have carried out all duties in a professional manner with total integrity.

“As football fans we can agree and disagree from time to time but I have always worked for the benefit of the club.

“Having secured the club’s status at step four and as the club is about to embark on a new trajectory with substantial financial backing, I have taken the difficult decision to retire and finally devote time to my family and grandchildren.”

The club has endured another challenging season on the pitch, having also battled to secure survival last year. The previous campaign (2023/24) saw them relegated from the Northern Premier League.

Stafford Rangers added that they are working to appoint a new technical director to work closely with the management team.